Vocal fold mass and how it can help you develop a more feminine, masculine, or androgynous sound

Our vocal folds (also called the vocal cords) are two folds of tissue located in the middle of the throat. They come together, vibrating rapidly while we speak and open when we breathe. 

Vocal fold mass is related to how much the vocal fold tissue comes together when the vocal folds make contact. We can modify the vocal fold mass, creating a thin or thick vocal fold configuration, changing the sound of our voice. 

Thick Sound

When the vocal folds have more adduction (come together) they are thicker, creating a buzzier sound. This buzzier sound is usually contributed to a more masculine voice. 

Strategies for creating thick vocal fold mass

#1: In a slightly lower pitch and louder sound, say “AHHH”.  

#2: Imagine your friend is across the street and you are trying to get their attention. “Hey! Wait up!!!” 

#3: Glide from high to low on “ah”. Stop at your comfortable low note. Feel the buzziness in the lower range? 

Thin Sound 

When the vocal folds have more abduction (space between them) they are thinner, creating a softer/lighter sound quality. This lighter sound is usually contributed to a more feminine voice. 

Stategies for creating thin vocal fold mass

#1: In a slightly higher pitch and quieter sound, say “ahhh”. 

#2: In a slightly higher pitch, imagine you are meeting your friend’s baby for the first time and saying “Aww, look at those beautiful blue eyes.” 

#3: Glide from low to high on “ah” feel the softness in the higher range? Make sure you are avoiding falsetto. 

Alternating Between Thick and Thin Sound 

Select a note in your target pitch (e.g., F3, 174 Hz) and produce the sound “AH”. Alternate between a thick and thin vocal fold configuration. For a thin configuration be careful not to get too breathy, and for a thick configuration make sure you’re driving the air from your belly and avoid squeezing your throat.