Theory 1 Review Questions

1. Theory 1 Review Questions Questions for discussion Please get with your folder partner to discuss the following.

2. Discussion Question 1 • What is the first element of proper vocal production? Please define it and explain how it works. • Phonation, which is the vibrating of the vocal cords.  Sound is created by vocal cords and air that is supported by the diaphragm.  This is the building block for singing.

3. Discussion Question 2 • What is the second element of proper vocal production?  Please discuss how this element works in conjunction with the first element. • Resonance is allowing the sound waves to bounce around in the nasal cavity or mask to create a ringing or brilliant sound.  Once sound is phonated or created it needs to resonate so that sound comes out with a pleasant quality

4. Discussion Question 3 • What is the third element of proper vocal production?  Please discuss the elements involved and how it can be used to enhance the first two elements. • Articulation-Your articulators are the lips, teeth and tongue.  These elements are used so audience members can clearly understand the text or lyrics of musical passages.  Once sound is created and resonated, it is important to articulate the text so it can be understood and enjoyed by audience members.

5. Discussion Question 4 • Evaluate the importance of understanding the keyboard and how it relates to the lines and spaces.  In other words:  Why are these the two most important elements to be mastered? • Understanding the relationship of the keyboard to the lines and spaces will allow you to play your own part on the piano.  It will also provide you with a deeper understanding of pitch relationships to aid you in sight-reading and intonation.  As you continue to learn new theory concepts you will need this information to build your knowledge base.

6. Discussion Question 5 • Describe three good vocal habits and explain how they positively impact a singer. • Rest-the body is the instrument.  Taking care of the body takes care of the instrument.  Overuse of the voice is not recommendedExercise-the body is the instrument.  Taking care of the body takes care of the instrument.Steam-this is humidity or moisture that directly passes over the vocal cords.  This is helpful when the air is dryWarm-up-Gradually increasing the use of the voice from the middle out is beneficial to the voice.  It provides gradual use of the voice in a controlled, routine way before encountering extremesWater-This hydrates the body and in turn hydrates the voice

7. Discussion Question 6 • Describe three poor vocal habits and explain how they negatively affect a singer. • Yelling-this is harsh overuse of the voice and, over time, can cause vocal problems such as nodes or hoarsenessCaffeine-this is a diuretic and will pull moisture from the body.  This can dry out your vocal chordsCarbonation-this creates air pockets and can interrupt continued air flow which is needed for singing.Smoke-the inhaling of smoke passes directly over your vocal chords.  This will dry them out-making phonation difficult, and also decrease your lung capacity, making sustained breathing difficultEat within 2 hours of singing-Certain foods can activate your mucous membranes and create phlegm on the vocal cords.  It is best to follow eating with lots of water and to conclude eating within 2 hours of singing to be sure your membranes have returned to their normal state.