The Voice Science Podcast

Episode Summary: Legato is one of the most frequently requested—and least clearly defined—skills in singing. In this episode, we unpack what it really takes to sing legato well. From managing airflow to shaping vowels and navigating consonants, we’ll guide you through practical strategies you can apply today. What You’ll Learn: Why breath support alone won’t get you legato How to develop continuou...

Why do instrumentalists seem to improve faster than singers? It’s not about talent—it’s about how they practice. In this episode, Josh explores the deep disconnect between how most vocalists approach their training compared to instrumentalists. From scale drills and arpeggios to muscle memory and voice science, this episode takes a critical look at why singers often rely too heavily on repertoire—...

Why do so many singing myths persist—even in college classrooms? In this episode of The Voice Science Podcast , host Josh Manuel explores Vox Agnotology —a term he’s coined to describe the willful and unintentional ignorance surrounding how the voice actually works. Inspired by the field of agnotology (the study of ignorance), Josh breaks down how outdated or misunderstood vocal concepts continue...

Singing straws promise stronger, easier, and healthier singing—but what does the science really say? In this episode of The Voice Science Podcast , we dive deep into the world of semi-occluded vocal tract exercises (SOVTEs)—with a spotlight on the ever-popular singing straws. From lip trills to submerged straws, these exercises are everywhere in voice training and rehabilitation. But are they real...

What do a trembling hand, an emotional speech, and a soaring operatic note have in common? Vibrato. In this episode of The Voice Science Podcast , we dive deep into the real science behind vibrato in singing—what it is, how it happens, and why it’s not just a stylistic choice, but a neuromuscular phenomenon grounded in biology. You’ll learn: • ✅ What causes vibrato (and why we don’t fully know) •...

🎙️ How to Sing with Dynamics: Mastering Loud and Soft Singing | The Voice Science Podcast Want more vocal power without straining? Learn the real science behind loud and soft singing—and why it’s not just about more air or effort. In this episode of The Voice Science Podcast , we’re breaking down the key elements that shape your vocal dynamics: subglottal air pressure, vocal fold mass and tension,...

🎙️ How to Sing in Tune: Master Your Pitch Accuracy | The Voice Science Podcast Tired of feeling like your pitch is just a little off when you sing? You’re not alone—and the good news is: singing in tune is a skill you can train. 🎶 In this episode of The Voice Science Podcast , we dive deep into how to sing in tune , what “pitch accuracy” really means , and how your brain learns music like a langu...

The Voice Science Podcast | Episode [6] Think there’s only one right way to breathe while singing? Think again. In this episode of The Voice Science Podcast , we debunk the myth of a one-size-fits-all breath and explore how different breathing strategies impact your voice, performance, and vocal health. Join Drew as we break down the anatomy of inhalation, explain the four main types of breathing...

Ever felt like you just can’t sing or speak another word? That frustrating tired, strained feeling in your voice is called vocal fatigue—and it happens to singers, teachers, and professional voice users alike. But what’s really going on when your voice feels exhausted? In this episode of The Voice Science Podcast , we’re breaking down: ✅ What vocal fatigue really is (Hint: It’s NOT your vocal fol...

Have you ever wondered how some singers have voices that seem to soar effortlessly, cutting through the mix and filling the room? The answer lies in brightness—a crucial acoustic phenomenon that enhances resonance and projection. In this episode of The Voice Science Podcast , we’re diving deep into the science of Ring and Twang, two vocal techniques that can transform your sound and help you sing...

Ever wondered why some notes feel effortless while others crack or don’t come out at all? The answer lies in phonatory threshold pressure (PTP)—the minimum air pressure needed to start and sustain sound. In this episode of The Voice Science Podcast, we break down what PTP is, how it’s calculated, and why it matters for singers. Discover how PTP affects vocal efficiency, vocal fatigue, and even voc...

Belting is one of the most exciting and misunderstood vocal techniques. Many singers struggle with it, wondering “Am I doing this right?” or “Is belting damaging my voice?” In this episode of The Voice Science Podcast , we break down what belting really is, separate fact from fiction, and give you science-backed strategies to belt safely and powerfully. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: ✅ The real definition...

Unlock the secrets of breath support in singing with us on the Voice Science Podcast, where we challenge the myth that more air equals more power. Discover how you can achieve powerful vocals without maxing out your lung capacity, and learn the surprising truth about what your body naturally does to support your singing. Together, we'll dissect the misconception of "singing from the diap...