If you're working on feminizing your voice, you're likely aware that one of the key components to achieving a more feminine sound is controlling resonance. By raising the larynx and making the vocal tract smaller, you can create a cuter, more feminine voice. However, I recently had a student who was struggling to achieve the desired upward movement with her larynx. In an attempt to help her, I created an exercise that showed promising results. So, today, I want to share this exercise with you and explain how it might just be the breakthrough you need on your voice feminization journey.

Exploring Resonance

Before we dive into the exercise, let's talk a bit about resonance. Resonance is the characteristic that sets the tone or colour of your voice. It's what makes a voice sound deep or bright, which we usually associate with masculine or feminine, respectively. Controlling resonance is crucial for anyone seeking a more feminine vocal quality.

The exercise I'm about to share is centered around modifying resonance, and it begins with a simple vocalization: "Ee ah, ee ah." When you say "ee" and "ah," you'll notice your the shape of your mouth changing. This is an important clue because controlling resonance is how we modify vowels. You can further prove to yourself that you're already an expert at modifying resonance by holding these sounds on a single pitch – "ee, ah, ee, ah". With the pitch held, you are effectively manipulating your voice's resonance only, taking a significant step toward a more feminine sound.

Expanding Your Resonance Toolkit

Now that we've established your ability to modify resonance with "ee" and "ah," let's take it a step further. Try the same exercise with "Ae" and "Ah." Pronounce it as "ae, ah, ae, ah." Check out the video above for an example. You can even experiment with variations, such as "ae, ah, ae, ah, ae, ah."

Reducing Mouth Movement

Here's where the exercise focuses on larynx movement. Up until this point, we've been relying on significant mouth shape changes to achieve shifts in resonance. But what if we could initiate these changes without moving the mouth as much? Let's give it a shot.

Transition from "ae" to "ah" without excessive mouth movement. Try saying "Ay, ah, Ay, ah." As you do this, you might feel a slight movement in your larynx and a lot of activity from the back of the tongue. This is an exciting development because it suggests that you're getting the hang of controlling your resonance without relying solely on mouth shape changes. Way to go!!

My Experience with the Exercise

I must admit that when I first introduced this exercise to my struggling student, I wasn't entirely sure of its effectiveness. However, I was pleasantly surprised when we both witnessed her larynx showing signs of upward movement and an encouraging shift in her resonance. This exercise had given her a glimmer of hope in her pursuit of a more feminine voice.

Your Turn to Try

Now that you've learned this powerful exercise, it's your turn to give it a try. The key to success lies in practice and consistency. You may not see immediate results, but remember that voice feminization is a gradual process that requires patience and dedication.

To get started, find a quiet space where you can focus, and practice the "ae, ah, ae, ah" transition. Pay close attention to any subtle changes in your larynx and tongue movement. It may take some time, but don't be discouraged if progress is slow. Your journey is unique, and everyone's voice transformation timeline is different.

Share Your Experiences

I'd love to hear about your experiences with this exercise. Did it help you achieve that elusive upward larynx movement and a more feminine resonance? Or perhaps you have your own tips and tricks for voice feminization that you'd like to share. Sharing your experience can be valuable for others on the same journey.

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to voice feminization. It's a deeply personal and transformative process, and what works for one person may not work for another. So, be open to trying new techniques and exercises until you find what resonates with you – both figuratively and literally 🤣

In Conclusion

Feminizing your voice is a journey filled with both challenges and triumphs. Resonance control is a crucial aspect of achieving a more feminine sound, and the "ae, ah, ae, ah" exercise may just be the missing piece of the puzzle for some individuals.

As you embark on this path, remember that your unique voice is a beautiful and powerful aspect of your identity. Embrace the journey, celebrate your progress, and stay committed to refining your voice. With patience, practice, and the right techniques, you can find the voice that truly represents who you are. So, go ahead and give the exercise a try, and don't forget to share your experience on Instagram or TikTok. Your voice is an incredible gift, and it's worth every effort to make it uniquely yours.