A common vocal issue is when the tone is caught in the throat – like a singing Kermit the Frog.
This is a sound that some may find strange to the ear, and unpleasant to mimic. However, others who have become habituated to hearing and feeling this sound may interpret this as a sound that can be “controlled” in a way. The idea of making certain sounds is often the result of trying to imitate what we might hear as far as singers with mature voices are concerned, maybe even trying to imitate a classical sound.
The correct sound that emanates from advanced singers is one in which there is much exercising so that strength and freedom is present. The sound does seem to come from many places in the neck and head. Almost as if the sound is coming out of the neck and the mouth and the face, maybe all directions at once.
The questions become: 1. “How do we make that sound?” and 2. “How do we interpret that sound?”
First, we should not try to “make” that sound.
Second, there is a way to interpret healthy sounds, and walk that path.
Once we are taught how to feel and hear what are correct sensations, then a light bulb goes off. We realize that the sound from the correct advanced singer cannot be forced or imitated or manipulated. This sound actually comes about over time as one does consistent correct vocal exercises.
The bottom line is that when a tone feels like it is caught in the throat or being gripped in the throat, the tone is not being produced by the muscles of singing in a free manner. Now, technically the main muscles involved in singing do reside in the throat. Yet, when working correctly, the feel is not in the throat but above it, as if the throat has been bypassed completely and one is singing above the jaw line as far as feel is concerned. As throat constriction becomes a thing of the past, then the student will feel free. Sounds will happen that are beautiful and full.