(I) Jaw

Benefits of jaw exercises

Listening
Student
Why is it helpful to train the jaw?
Holding a microphone
Teacher
The jaw also acts as a base for tension in the tongue and in areas below the jaw, such as the neck.
Holding a microphone
Teacher
Besides learning to use the different tones produced by each jaw position, finding a balance that lets you vocalize comfortably regardless of jaw position can reduce instability caused by different lyrics. You can also learn movements that briefly extend your vocal range.

How to practice with the jaw

Holding a microphone
Teacher
First, rest the tip of your tongue behind your lower teeth and make a nasal “mmm” hum sound in your Goo voice.
Holding a pointer
Teacher
Keeping this setup, practice switching between the following three jaw positions without interrupting your voice.
Position 1: Keep your usual jaw opening, with your mouth slightly open.
Position 2: From position 1, lower the jaw straight down so your mouth opens vertically.
Position 3: From position 1, push the jaw forward so the lower jaw protrudes.
Looking puzzled
Student
What should I do if the protruding jaw position in pattern 3 is difficult?
Thinking
Teacher
Try practicing these positions.
• Make a sound with your lower teeth shifted slightly in front of your upper teeth.
• Vocalize while keeping your lower teeth just touching, or almost touching, your upper lip.
Goo voice example