Question:
I’m a 40-year-old man. I have a high-toned voice, very nasal. I have listened to people mimic the way I sound in a derogatory manner. Are there any natural ways to deepen the sound of my voice without sounding like I’m forcing it? I’m at my wit’s end and I’m considering surgery.
Answer:
I am aware there are some vocal pathologies that can only be corrected with surgery and only a doctor could tell you what condition you might have that would require such a measure. However, I do recommend you try working with a speech therapist first because most nasality and pitch issues can be corrected with practice. Meanwhile, you can work to make sure that your tongue is wide in the bottom of your mouth and that it is touching your bottom front teeth — not pulled back or raised high. Also, make “ooh” and “oh” sounds. They are usually less nasal than other sounds and you can use them to help. Start with a not nasal “ooh” and slowly switch to a sound that is more nasal, perhaps “ay.” See if you can get the “ay” sound to feel more like the “ooh” by moving the back of the tongue as little as possible. Go back and forth a number of times. Also check to make sure your larynx doesn’t rise when you speak by touching the “Adams Apple” lightly. Expanding the lower ribs as you inhale and keeping them expanded as you speak can help to take the pressure off and make it easier to keep the larynx low. Also read other answers about nasality and pitch as I have addressed these issues before. Most importantly, don’t give up.