Whistle register

Physiology and definition

The whistle register is the highest phonational register, which in most singers begins above the soprano "high D" (D6 or 1174.6 Hz) and extends to about an octave above (D7 or 2349.3 Hz). It is created by using only the back of the vocal folds. The lower part of the whistle register may overlap the upper parts of the modal and falsetto registers, making it possible for singers to phonate these notes in different ways. However, fundamentally, the whistle register is most commonly used to produce pitches above D6. As with the other vocal registers, the whistle register does not begin at the same point within every voice, and there are rare voices that can extend the whistle register much higher or lower than the range listed above. For example, most operatic coloratura sopranos can sing up to the "high" F above "high" C without entering into the whistle register.

The physiology of the whistle register is the least understood of the vocal registers. Unlike other types of vocal production, it is difficult to film the vocal cords while they are operating in this manner as the epiglottis closes down over the larynx, and the resonating chamber assumes its smallest dimensions. It is known that when producing pitches in this register, vibration occurs only in some anterior portion of the vocal folds. This shorter vibrating length naturally allows for easier production of high pitches.

Although the whole physiological production of whistle tone is not understood, it is known that while the lateral cricoarytenoid muscles are active, the transverse arytenoid muscles remain inactive; a triangular opening is seen between the arytenoids, the vocal processes contact each other, and the posterior parts at the apex do not contact each other. The exception to this would be if the vocal folds are not stretched, as stretching of the vocal ligaments abducts (moves away from) the vocal processes.

Use in music

In popular music, the whistle register is used with more variety and to produce much higher pitches than are called for in classical music. It has mostly been used by female singers, with notable examples being Minnie Riperton, Betty Wright, Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera, Ariana Grande,Sources:

• Chante Moore, and Lara Raj of Katseye.

Some male singers can also make use of the whistle register, including Vitas, Adam Lopez, Axl Rose and Dimash Qudaibergen.

References

References

1. Miller, Donald G.. (1993-09-01). "Physical definition of the “flageolet register”". Journal of Voice.
2. James C. McKinney. (1994). "The Diagnosis and Correction of Vocal Faults: A Manual for Teachers of Singing and for Choir Directors". Genevox Music Group.
3. (1 June 2001). "Greene and Mathieson's the voice and its disorders". Whurr.
4. Van den Berg, J.W.. (December 1963). "Vocal Ligaments versus Registers". The NATS Bulletin.
5. (2002). "All Music Guide To Rock: The Definitive Guide to Rock, Pop, and Soul". Hal Leonard Corporation.
6. (Oct 11, 2008). "Betty Wright - Queen of Whistle Register?".
7. Vincent, Alice. (May 6, 2015). "Mariah Carey: how she hits those highs".
8. Slezak, Michael. (August 16, 2006). "The Essential Christina Aguilera".
9. "Whistle Register Singing Voice". Become Singers Vocal Coaching.
10. "What Is Whistle Register?". Live About.
11. "Реакция на вокал Димаша Кудайбергена вокального тренера Энди Дэвиса". Yandex News Russia.