Voice and Speech Flashcards

Which muscle is primarily responsible for breath control and support in voice production?

Answer: Diaphragm

The diaphragm is the primary muscle of breathing; its controlled engagement provides the breath support needed to sustain and power vocal tone.

Which term describes the use of the body's natural cavities to amplify and enrich vocal sound?

Answer: Resonance

Resonance is the amplification and enrichment of sound as it vibrates in the body's cavities, such as the chest, pharynx, and sinuses.

In voice training, what does the term 'support' most accurately refer to?

Answer: The sustained engagement of breath muscles to maintain vocal tone

Vocal support means maintaining active engagement of the breath muscles — particularly the diaphragm and abdominals — to sustain and control the voice throughout a phrase.

Which articulators are primarily responsible for shaping and forming consonant sounds in speech?

Answer: Lips, teeth, tongue, and hard palate

Consonants are formed by the active articulators — lips, teeth, tongue, and hard palate — which shape the airflow to create distinct speech sounds.

In vocal performance, what does 'projection' correctly mean?

Answer: Directing the voice so it reaches the audience without straining

Projection means directing focused, supported sound outward so it carries to the audience, achieved through breath support and resonance rather than force.

Which vocal term refers to the perceived highness or lowness of a sound?

Answer: Pitch

Pitch is determined by the frequency of vocal fold vibrations — faster vibrations produce a higher pitch, slower vibrations produce a lower pitch.

In LAMDA graded examinations, which term refers to the clarity and precision of consonants and vowels in spoken delivery?

Answer: Articulation

Articulation is the precise and clear formation of individual speech sounds, ensuring every consonant and vowel is communicated distinctly to the listener.