Does Speech Level Singing Actually Work?

Do you ever wonder why some singers seem to effortlessly transition from low notes to high ones, all while maintaining a consistent sound? How do they manage to sing for hours without straining their voices?

The secret lies in a technique known as speech level singing (SLS), a method that has been taught by vocal coaches to artists you may have heard, like Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson.

What is Speech Level Singing?

In essence, speech level singing is a technique that promotes singing with the same ease and effortlessness as speaking. It’s about keeping your larynx stable, just like when you’re having a chat with a friend. Instead of pushing or straining your voice, SLS teaches you to use your own voice in a healthy way, producing a great singing voice with minimal effort.

The Science Behind SLS

To understand SLS, we first need to delve into the world of vocal mechanics. Your voice box, also known as the larynx, houses your vocal cords (or vocal folds). When air passes through these folds, they vibrate and produce sound as you speak or sing.

Different vocal registers, like chest voice and head voice, are produced by varying the tension and length of these vocal folds.

In speech level singing, the aim is to keep the larynx stable. This is achieved by managing breath support and air pressure, and not applying too much volume. When done right, this leads to a balanced mix voice, which combines elements of both chest and head voice.

The Role of a Voice Teacher

A good voice teacher plays a crucial role in teaching SLS. Generally speaking, most teachers will guide you through speech level singing exercises, helping you to understand your vocal registers and how to smoothly transition between them.

Whether you’re interested in contemporary music, classical singing, or musical theatre, a skilled teacher can help you apply SLS techniques to any genre.

The Benefits of SLS

One of the key benefits of speech level singing is the ability to sing throughout your entire range with a consistent sound. Many singers, when switching between chest and head voice, experience a noticeable break. But with SLS, you can smoothly transition between different registers without any abrupt changes in tone.

Moreover, SLS promotes vocal health. Because it’s based on the natural position of the larynx during speech, it reduces strain on the vocal cords and soft palate. This allows you to sing for longer periods without fatigue or damage to your voice.

Myths and Misconceptions

Despite its benefits, SLS has been surrounded by controversy. Some critics, like Ken Tamplin, argue that it lacks power and restricts volume. However, many proponents of SLS have found that it does not limit volume or power. Instead, it teaches singers to achieve these qualities without straining the voice.

Putting SLS into Practice

So, how can you start applying SLS to your own singing? Start by paying attention to your speaking voice. Notice how your throat feels relaxed and your words flow naturally? That’s the same sensation you should aim for when singing.

Next, engage in voice training exercises that focus on maintaining a stable larynx. This might feel strange at first, especially if you’re used to pushing your voice. But over time, you’ll start to notice a difference. Your high notes will seem less elusive, your low notes more resonant, and your entire range will feel more connected.

FAQs About Speech Level Singing

What is Speech Level Singing?

Speech Level Singing (SLS) is a technique that helps singers achieve effortless vocal control and improve their vocal tone quality. It was developed by Seth Riggs, who is an internationally acclaimed vocal coach.

What is the difference between chest voice and speech level?

Chest voice refers to a lower register of our voice that we use while speaking or singing lower notes in our range. Speech level, on the other hand, refers to a technique where the singer maintains the same level of resonance from the lowest to the highest notes.

How does the speech level singing technique work?

The SLS technique is based on the concept of balancing the pressure between the vocal folds and the air. By learning to use the correct amount of air pressure, singers can achieve a more consistent tone across their entire range.

What are the benefits of taking speech level singing lessons?

Speech level singing lessons can help singers improve their vocal technique, achieve greater pitch accuracy and control, and develop a wider range of vocal qualities. The technique is especially helpful for contemporary music genres.

What are vocal registers?

Vocal registers refer to different parts of our vocal range that have distinct tonal qualities. The most common vocal registers are chest voice, head voice, and mixed voice.

How does SLS help with vocal registers?

SLS helps singers to access their mixed voice, which is the overlapping region between the chest and head voice registers. By learning to blend these registers smoothly, singers can achieve a seamless transition between different parts of their range.

Can I learn SLS from other teachers besides Seth Riggs?

Yes, many other vocal coaches are trained in the SLS technique and can teach singing in the SLS way to their students. However, it is important to find a qualified vocal coach who can teach SLS correctly and safely.

What is the first bridge in vocal training?

The first bridge, also known as the passaggio, is the transition area between the chest and head voice registers. It is a crucial part of training for singers to achieve a smooth and seamless range across these registers.

How does SLS help singers control their voice?

SLS enables singers to directly control their voice by using specific exercises that target the muscles used in singing. These exercises help singers to improve their vocal tone, breath control, and pitch accuracy.

Can SLS produce special vocal effects like bel canto?

Yes, SLS can help singers to achieve special vocal effects sounds like bel canto, which is a classical singing style characterized by smooth and sustained vocal lines. However, reaching this point requires consistent training and effort on the part of the singer.

Final Thoughts on Speech Level Singing

In conclusion, speech level singing is a powerful technique that can transform your voice and your approach to singing. It may seem challenging at first, but with patience, practice, and the guidance of a good voice teacher, you’ll soon reap the benefits. So why not give it a try? You might just find that it’s the key to unlocking your full vocal potential.

Remember, great singing isn’t about straining or pushing. It’s about understanding your own voice and how to use it in a way that’s both effective and healthy. So, keep your larynx stable, remember your breath support, and let your voice soar. Happy singing!