The structure of the voice is comprised of several key components working together: the vibratory system, resonators, and articulators.
Components of the Voice Mechanism
The human voice mechanism is a complex system. Here's a breakdown of its main components:
- Vibratory System: This is the core of the voice, and the voice box (larynx) and vocal folds (sometimes called vocal cords) comprise the vibratory system of the voice mechanism. The vocal folds vibrate to produce sound.
- Resonators: These amplify and modify the sound produced by the vocal folds. The vocal tract is comprised of resonators which give a personal quality to the voice. Examples of resonators include the throat, mouth, and nasal cavity.
- Articulators: These shape the sound into recognizable speech sounds. The vocal tract is comprised of ... the modifiers or articulators which form sound into voiced sounds. Articulators include the tongue, lips, teeth, and palate.
Table Summarizing Voice Structure
| Component | Description | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vibratory System | Larynx and vocal folds (vocal cords). | Produces the initial sound through vibration. | Humming |
| Resonators | Vocal tract (throat, mouth, nasal cavity). | Amplifies and modifies the sound, adding personal qualities. | Yawning |
| Articulators | Tongue, lips, teeth, palate. | Shapes the sound into distinct speech sounds. | Saying "Hello" |
Examples of Voice Function
- Singing: In singing, all three components (vibratory system, resonators, and articulators) work in coordination to produce melodious and controlled sounds.
- Speaking: During speech, the articulators precisely shape the sound produced by the vocal folds to form words and sentences.
- Whispering: In whispering, the vocal folds vibrate less, and the sound is primarily shaped by the articulators.
