“Chest voice,” “head voice,” and “falsetto” are simply words to describe the different ways the vocal cords vibrate and function as we sing from lower to higher notes. When the change between chest voice and higher registers is sudden and abrupt, it is usually noticeable and undesirable. So good singers mix some of the heavy chest voice with some of the head voice as they move between the two.
This “mix” or “middle voice” usually involves 5 or 6 semitones. Higher than that and the head voice begins to take over more and more, leaving the chest voice to work less and less. This creates a much smoother transition.
Falsetto is a beautiful and unique sound because the vocal cords create the vibrations of sound in a completely different way than the registers of the chest or head. (To understand more about vocal registers, see my article titled “What the heck are ‘vocal registers’ and how do they affect my singing?”)
The main trick is to train the larynx to stay low in the throat as we sing higher, and a great way to practice this is to use the “gug” sound. Sing that on a comfortable low note and repeat it as you sing a major up and down arpeggio. (C – E – G – C -(repeat C 4 times) G -E – C)
The “gug” sound will bounce your larynx (Adam’s apple) back down your throat, and it should keep bouncing as you play higher notes. Don’t force this to happen! Use your imagination to work it out. As you continue to do this exercise, repeating it over and over, each time a half tone higher, your larynx will learn to stay lower as you sing higher. If your voice “breaks” into falsetto at the top, drop down a couple of notes and try again. If it keeps “breaking” leave it for a while. Don’t keep forcing high notes. They must be light and thin.
Singing this exercise often, using different vowels will bring the “mix” to your voice. Remember: do not force the larynx down. “down it”. Then try “mom” with the same exercise. Repetition is the key. Don’t rush things.
Find a voice teacher who understands the “mix” or “middle voice.” (Not everyone does), or ask for my SINGER’S BIBLE. It really helps to listen to the exercises on tape.