In open-throat singing, what is the typical position of velum and larynx?

• A. Velum raised and larynx lowered.
• B. Velum lowered and larynx raised.
• C. Velum raised and larynx raised.
• D. Velum lowered and larynx lowered.

Answer: (A)

Open-throat singing aims for a large, relaxed vocal tract to carry sound with ease and resonance. Raising the velum closes the nasal passage, directing the sound into the oral cavity for a clean, non-nasal tone. Lowering the larynx expands the pharyngeal space, giving more room for resonance and a more open, relaxed feeling in the throat. Together, a raised velum and a lowered larynx create that open, spacious quality singers seek in this approach. If the velum were lowered, nasal resonance would creep in; if the larynx were raised, the throat would narrow, reducing openness and comfort.