Understanding how the voice works is essential for singers, speakers, and anyone who relies on their voice professionally. Whether you're looking to strengthen your voice, improve vocal technique, or prevent strain, knowing the fundamentals of anatomy and physiology will help you make the most of your vocal potential.

As a Vocal Coach and Speech-Language Pathologist, I work with singers, actors, and professional voice users to refine their technique and prevent vocal injuries. In this two-part series, we’ll explore how the human voice produces sound.

In Part 1, we will focus on the anatomy of the voice—the physical structures that make phonation (voice production) possible. In Part 2, we’ll dive into the physiology—how these structures function together, using scientific principles like the Bernoulli Principle and the Source-Filter Theory to shape the voice.

The Anatomy of the Human Voice

The human voice relies on three major systems:

The Respiratory System – The power source for the voice.
The Laryngeal System (Larynx) – The sound generator.
The Resonance System – The amplifier and modifier of sound.

Each of these components plays a vital role in creating clear, strong, and expressive vocal tones.

1. The Respiratory System (Power Source)

Before we can create sound, we need air. The respiratory system provides the necessary airflow and pressure to set the vocal folds into motion.

Key structures involved:

Lungs – Store and release air.
Diaphragm – A dome-shaped muscle at the bottom of the ribcage. It contracts when we inhale, allowing the lungs to expand, and relaxes when we exhale, pushing air out.
Trachea (Windpipe) – A tube that directs air from the lungs to the vocal folds.

2. The Larynx (Sound Generator)

The larynx, or voice box, is the organ responsible for producing sound. It houses the vocal folds (also called vocal cords), which vibrate as air passes through them.

Key structures inside the larynx:

Vocal Folds – Two bands of muscle and tissue that vibrate to create sound waves.
Thyroid Cartilage – The largest cartilage, often referred to as the "Adam's apple." It helps control pitch and protects the vocal folds.
Arytenoid Cartilages – Small cartilages that move the vocal folds, helping them open for breathing and close for phonation.
Cricoid Cartilage – Forms the base of the larynx and supports movement.

3. The Resonance System (Amplifier & Modifier)

Once sound is generated at the vocal folds, it travels through the resonance system, where it is amplified and modified into recognizable speech or singing.

Key resonance chambers:

Pharynx (Throat) – The first space where sound resonates. The size and shape of the pharynx affect vocal tone.
Oral Cavity (Mouth) – Shapes sounds into vowels and consonants. The tongue, lips, and soft palate play a role in articulation.
Nasal Cavity (Nose) – Adds brightness and resonance to certain sounds (e.g., nasal sounds like "m" and "n").

Now that we understand the anatomy—the structures involved in voice production—Part 2 will explain how these structures function together to create sound. We’ll explore the Bernoulli Principle, Source-Filter Theory, and the role of breath control in producing a healthy, powerful voice.

Stay tuned!

By Radina - Vocal Coach & Speech-Language Pathologist

Anatomy & Physiology101:The Human Voice & Sound Production Pt.1