How to open the throat: The magical vowel U
In this post, I want to explain the primary tool used in the Melocchi school for voice training. During the initial phase of training, the only vowel used is "U." Open vowels are avoided at first because they do not ensure a fully lowered larynx. The correctly formed "U" vowel must be pure and deep, as any resemblance to "O" or "A" would raise the larynx and close off the throat. When the "U" is formed correctly, it raises the soft palate and fully lowers the larynx, expanding the main resonator of the voice—the pharynx.
While practicing with the "U" vowel, the singer should feel as if they are inhaling or drawing the sound inward. This continuous backward and downward motion helps keep the larynx stable while ascending the scale. Any projection of the voice forward or into the mask disrupts this positioning and closes off the main resonator. These exercises, performed under the guidance of a qualified teacher, should continue until the student can maintain this laryngeal position throughout their entire range. When done correctly, the voice becomes homogeneous from the lowest to the highest notes.
Another important advantage of using the "U" vowel is that it resolves the problem of the passaggio. Since "U" is already a closed vowel, the student does not need to think about covering or turning the voice in the zona di passaggio. If the laryngeal position is stable, the cricothyroid muscles can stretch the vocal cords without compromising the open throat. This allows the singer to navigate the passaggio while maintaining volume, roundness, and ring.
Once the laryngeal muscles are strengthened and the student can keep the throat fully open with the "U" vowel, they can transition to more open vowels while maintaining the laryngeal depth achieved with the "U" exercises.
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