A well-balanced symphony can introduce you to powerful sounds that you never even thought was possible. It can also remind you of one familiar sound that resonates with you daily: your voice. Compositions have the ability to mimic the sound of the human voice, but how is such a feat possible?
To understand this connection, it’s important to discuss the process behind your voice. There are three systems at play to produce your vocal sound: the respiratory system, the phonatory system (the larynx and vocal cords), and the resonatory system (throat, sinuses, mouth, and nasal passages). As you breathe in and exhale, your vocal cords close together and vibrate due to the passage of air. The noise created from the vibrations is further amplified and modified by your tongue, lips, and the rest of the resonatory system. The end result is your very distinct voice.
The string family of instruments are often compared to the human voice, and with good reason. Take the violin, for example. The motion of the bow against the strings acts as the “fuel” needed (respiratory system) to create vibrations through the bridge (phonatory system) which are then enhanced by the f-holes and shaped by the tuning pegs, adjuster, and specific finger placement (resonatory system).
Just like humans have very different voices, the string family also carries unique sounds, from the highly pitched violin that can resemble a soprano to the double bass covering the deepest of singers.
Orchestra members know that having their instruments in top shape is key to having harmonious music. For the string family in particular, that means having an even bow, the right amount of rosin, healthy strings, and other variables that can impact their sound.
Dr. Darrell Klotz, a CEENTA otolaryngologist who practices out of our SouthPark location, has sound advice regarding your throat. “From professional singers to shower singing stars, everyone should regard their voice as their ‘vocal instrument’ and keep all of the components healthy and in good working order.”
Your voice is the same way. A sore throat, clogged nose or sinuses, swollen vocal cords or even a sore on your tongue causing pain can all negatively affect your voice in different ways. When that happens, it’s important to go to the specialists who know the unique properties of your throat and how to treat it. CEENTA’s team of ENT physicians treat a wide range of conditions affecting throat health and work in tandem with voice and swallowing experts who can diagnose vocal disorders of all severities. Schedule an appointment with CEENTA today and bring your voice back to symphony.
This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor. New patients can make appointments online with our ENT doctors in North and South Carolina. Current patients can also make appointments through myCEENTAchart with physicians they have already seen.
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