Relaxation and the Impact of Tension

Relaxation, especially in the face, is one of the most important things a singer can do to enhance their tone, build long-lasting strength and durability. If a singer has tension in the jaw and forehead, that tension will move through into the tongue and into the larynx. The larynx is also known as ‘the voice box’ and its position controls the tone of your voice. For example, a mid to high laryngeal position creates a more contemporary (modern) sound, whereas a lower position creates a more classical or ‘traditional’ sound. This alone shows how important it is to stay relaxed so a singer doesn’t accidentally sabotage their tone.

Facial relaxation will also improve the resonance of the voice as it allows the sound to reverberate more. The sound waves bounce around cavities like the throat, mouth and nose. It is far easier for these sound waves to bounce, and therefore resonate, in soft, relaxed areas, rather than harder, rigid ones, caused by the tension. Increased resonance will help with a richer tone of the voice and prevents a singer from having to push more air or try harder than needed.

One of the most common causes of facial tension is tight neck muscles that can travel to the face, often caused by poor posture and stress. Stress and anxiety can often lead to tension in the neck, jaw clenching, and teeth grinding. Being aware if you’re prone to any of this is super important so you can do check-ins with yourself throughout the day. If you notice any clenching or scrunching in the face, do some gentle, slow breaths to try to release this. Building this awareness, will, in the long-term, reduce the overall tension.

When singing, facial tension can be caused, generally, by nerves and stress too, however, there are more specific things that can cause that tension, as well. This tension can be caused by trying to reach notes without proper support, stretching the neck upwards or gripping. Similarly, pushing instead of engaging other muscles in the body or forcing the jaw to be far too open, therefore locking the jaw, can add additional facial tension. 

By giving yourself facial massages of the jaw, cheeks and eyebrows into the temples is a great way to prevent a build-up of tension and it is also a great step one before even warming up your voice. A massage is always the first thing I do before I sing. As mentioned earlier, self check-ins of your posture and jaw gripping throughout the day will prevent long-term build up of tension in the face.