Lynn Maxfield, MA, PhD
Lynn Maxfield, PhD, is the Director of the Utah Center for Vocology and Assistant Professor (Lecturer) at the University of Utah’s School of Music. He also serves as the contracted Voice Coach at the Utah of Utah Voice Disorders Center and is the Associate Editor of the Mindful Voice column of the NATS Journal of Singing. He holds a PhD in Voice Pedagogy and an MA in Voice Performance, both from the University
Financial Disclosure: Dr. Maxfield has no financial relationships to disclose.
Non-Financial Disclosure: Dr. Maxfield has no non-financial relationships to disclose.
Paper Presentation: The Role of the Vocal Ligament in Changes in Pitch Range
The vocal ligament is part of the layered structure of the vocal fold. It is a thin band of tissue near the superior medial edge of the vocal fold. The ligament connects the arytenoid cartilage to the anterior portion of the thyroid cartilage and comprises the intermediate and deep layer of the lamina propria. The physiological functions of the vocal ligament are not fully understood, but it is known that a well-developed vocal ligament is essential for widening the pitch range available to a voice user, with particular impact on increasing the maximum achievable pitch. While the molecular components of the vocal ligament are present at birth, the density and alignment of collagen fibers within the ligament change during early development and in response to vocal activity. The current study sought to investigate our ability to change the morphological properties of the vocal ligament in adulthood by measuring maximum phonation pitch in human subject volunteers before and after participating in an 8-week vocal exercise protocol that required them to regularly practice vocalizing at frequencies above 400hz for AMAB participants and above 500hz for AFAB participants. Preliminary data are presented here showing an increase in maximum pitch after participation in the exercise protocol. Acknowledging that there are other likely causes for this change (e.g. muscular or neuromuscular changes), a case is made for why this increase may conceivably indicate a change in vocal ligament morphology.
Presentation/Demonstration: SOVTs: A Systematic Approach to Effective Selection
Panel: Useful Lies: Pseudoscience in the Voice Studio and Clinic
This panel will discuss phrases and ideas often used in the voice studio and clinic that could be considered “useful lies.” We often have to simplify complicated scientific ideas to help clients facilitate a change in vocal efficiency. The panel will examine some of our favorite “useful” lies and explore fact and fiction.