Whispered Vowels for Singers

The whispered “ah,” (represented throughout with the International Phonetic Alphabet symbol /ɑ/) is a traditional Alexander Technique procedure, and has been represented as an effective way to improve functional singing issues, including respiration (Heirich 2011, 85; Kleinman and Buckoke 2013, 101) and phonation (Dimon 2015; Murdock 2009; McCallion 1988, 26–28; Jones 1976, 21). However, the use of whispering as an effective voice-building tool for singers has been consistently challenged over time (Titze and Verdolini Abbott 2012, 264). Due to the scarcity of quantitative findings, and conflicting anecdotal evidence, the tension between the pro- and antiwhispering advocates persists. This article examines current research in conjunction with multiple pedagogical perspectives to explore the whispered “ah” from a singer-centric perspective. Practical adaptations for singers are proposed through the exploration of al-ternate vowels, emotional affect, and shifting vocal color. Specific exercises for the articulators (tongue, jaw, and lips) both for tension release and/or adequate vocal tract tonus reintegration are proposed.