Singing Lessons - Overtones and Resonance

Voice Resonance and Singing Overtones

A good teacher in singing could start with some overtones as a warm up during their singing lessons. Overtones could also be used in gentle voice training.

Overtone singing, also known as overtone chanting, harmonic singing, (terms created by David Hykes which have now become generic), is a type of singing in which the singer manipulates the harmonic resonances (or formants) created as air travels from the lungs, past the vocal folds, and out the lips. Throat singing usually refers to several traditional Central Asian styles of overtone singing, but is also applied to traditional techniques from other regions. It is usually differentiated from overtone singing by the application of a harsh voice or some constriction in the larynx.

Acoustics and Theory of Singing

The overtones are clearly heard when the partials of a sound wave produced by the human voice is selectively amplified by changing the shape of the resonant cavities of the mouth, larynx and pharynx. The result of this resonant tuning allows the singer to create more than one pitch at the same time. Generally the sounds created by throat singing are low droning hums and high pitched flutelike melodies. The sound of certain styles of overtone singing may remind one of a Theremin.

Rollin Rachele is the first to author a comprehensive study guide which covers the mechanics and the theory behind overtone singing. 'The Overtone Singing Study Guide' was first published in Dutch 1989 and then in English in 1996. The book continues to be the seminal piece of work for all who are interested in understanding and developing their technical skills.

Overtones are not really used in popular music singing, however, if you listen closely to some singers like Christina Aguillera, overtones can be heard especially when they are singing high. A really resonant voice comes with a lot of voice training throughout the years and singing teacher should be able to guide you on how to create more resonance. During my singing lessons I get students to practice medialising vowels which produces more resonance.