Resonances
By
George Bragg
(from "The Big Book")

This change in mixture of resonances take place automatically if production is free. Naturally, the mood of the composition and the emotional elements bear on influence, but only after vocal technique has been established.		1. Chest Resonance - Predominates in low tones. Gradually diminishes in ascending, completely disappearing in female top voice. It is present in changed male voice. In degrees, in top tones. Do not try to carry it up.
		2. Mouth Resonance 3. Mask Resonance 4. Nose Resonance		These really comprise what is commonly called "the mask", or, the "resonance band". These resonances are always present. In addition to these resonators, the mask contains the hard palate, the ceiling of the arch, against which all tone is projected, for the word, being in the mouth, determines the point of concentration of vocal sound. NOTE: We resonate in the nose, but do not sing through it. Test by pinching nostrils together with fingers. If vocal color changes, there is too much nasal resonance.
		5. Head Resonance - Predominates in high tones. How does one explain head resonance? It is something we hear. It diminishes in descending. Listen for it all the way down over the area called "la voca finta".

Copyright © 1981, 2001 by George Bragg. Used by permission.