reduced in length by half, but the number is again doubled, so that the pitch of these tones is still one octave higher than that of the corresponding tones of the middle register. This arrangement permits a simultaneous action of the three registers, each one having its individual effect on the vocal cords and the three kinds of sound waves being produced at the same time. This - concentrated action of the registers and the results are most gratifying. It does not bring forth three disconcerted tones but rather that of one tone composed of a basic part and two harmonics or overtones. This is what constitutes the natural voice. The meaning of the common expression "loss of the natural voice" is above all else the lack of harmonics in the tone one produces in singing or speaking. The harmonics give a coloring and a flowing quality to the tones such as could not be obtained from one register alone. The harmonious quality of the voice is regained by an intelligent application of the natural action during the vocal exercises and by incorporating it into the speaking voice for constant use. The student should be aware of the fact that the simultaneous action of the three registers increases the activity of the vocal cords to such an extent that an irritation, causing a burning sensation in the throat, might be felt after the exercises. This discomfort is a warning of Nature. The student should be prompt in recognizing it and yield to it by softening the quality of the tones and shortening the time of the exercises. The strength of the vocal cords gradually increases with a moderate amount of exercise. In some cases they seem to become indefatigable, but they are constructed with delicate tissues and it would not be reasonable to overtax them continuously. QUESTIONS FOR TOPICAL REVIEW What is the passage above the bronchial tubes called? What is the lining of the windpipe and bronchial tubes called? What is the upper opening of the windpipe called? Where are the vocal cords located? What is the size of the vocal cords? How are the vocal cords acted upon? Describe the manner in which the vibrations of the vocal cords take place. What are the particular effects of the registers' action on the vocal cords? What is the result of a simultaneous action of the three registers in the production of a tone? What is the loss of the harmonious quality of the voice commonly called? How is the harmonious quality of the voice regained? Why are the vocal cords liable to be irritated by a simultaneous action of the registers? How should an irritation of the vocal cords be relieved? CHAPTER VIII BALANCE OF POWER With the realization that the production of a harmonious tone requires the coöperation of the three registers of the voice, it is thereby concluded that the three air columns are accommodated at the same time through the windpipe (G, Plate No. 1), in the same way that three different and independent streams might run in a river bed. In taking away one of the registers, the windpipe remains still wholly occupied, but by only two air columns. It is desirable that the pupil first become acquainted with the mechanism of two of the registers in the formation of a tone. For this, some training on the exercises illustrated in Plate No. 12 will be beneficial. Experience will show that in the case of the majority of people the voice has retained a few tones of a natural quality to PLATE NO. 12 Original plate and exercises intended to practice the octave overtone and the changing of the basic and the harmonic relative position during the sustentation the extent of having an overtone. As soon as the pupil becomes conscious of this condition in some tones of his own voice, with a few demonstrations he realizes the possibility of inverting, through the will power, the relative positions of the basic and the harmonic part of a tone, somewhat in the way the hands are carried from side to side in the tension exercise. The whole power of the lung is applied |