Relationship between voice and hearing

Voice and hearing are two fundamental aspects of human communication. The close relationship between them is often underestimated. In this session, we will explore the connection between voice and hearing, and how the two influence each other. Understanding this relationship will help us improve our spoken communication and make the most of our speaking skills.

The importance of audition in vocal production.

Perception of one's own voice: Our ability to hear our own voice is crucial in regulating the quality and pitch of our speech. Listening provides us with information about how we sound and allows us to make adjustments in our vocal production.

Monitoring and feedback: Through listening, we can evaluate our own voice in real time and make adjustments to improve articulation, volume and intonation. Auditory feedback is essential to the development and refinement of our vocal skills.

Impact of voice on hearing

Vocal projection: A well-projected and clear voice is easier for others to hear and understand. Vocal quality and intensity directly influence auditory perception and how others perceive us.

Intonation and expressiveness: A voice with good modulation and intonation captures attention and improves message comprehension. Proper vocal variation in terms of pitch, rhythm and emphasis is critical to effective communication.

Common problems that affect the relationship between the voice and hearing

Hearing loss: People with hearing loss may have difficulty regulating their own voice and adjusting their vocal production due to a lack of accurate auditory feedback. This can affect the clarity and quality of their speech.

Articulation problems: Speech disorders, such as dysarthria or apraxia of speech, can interfere with vocal production and make listening comprehension difficult. These problems may require specialized therapy to improve both voice and hearing.

Vocal tension: Excessive tension in the muscles of the larynx and neck can adversely affect vocal quality and lead to vocal fatigue. This can affect hearing by producing a less clear and less articulate voice.

Improving the relationship between voice and hearing

Hearing care: Maintaining good hearing health is essential to the relationship between voice and hearing. Having regular hearing tests and protecting the ears from loud or harmful noises helps preserve the ability to hear and adjust one's own voice.

Vocal technique and ear training: Improving vocal technique through breathing, projection and vocal modulation exercises can contribute to a clearer and more expressive voice, which facilitates listening comprehension. At the same time, training the ear musically can help develop better intonation and vocal rhythm.