Postural Control in Lyric Singers

Abstract

Background: Singers are unique musicians because they use their whole body as a musical instrument. Posture and proprioception are key components for a robust and healthy voice.

Objective: This study aimed to analyze the postural control of lyric singers in different sensorimotor conditions.

Methods: Seventeen lyric singers were compared to a control group of 12 participants in static postural control test in eyes open (C1) and eyes closed (C2) conditions. Postural control of singers was also assessed in four specific singing conditions: singing posture eyes open (C3) and eyes closed (C4), vocalization (C5) and free aria (C6), low values being representative of good postural control. Singers also completed the Singing Voice Handicap Index (SVHI) French version, low scores reflecting a good SVHI result.

Results: No significant difference was observed between the two groups in C1 and C2. Postural control of singers was more accurate in C3 than in C1. Increased values in all postural parameters were seen in the singing conditions. Scores obtained at the SVHI were correlated to the area covered by the center of foot pressure in C5, low scores at the SVHI being correlated with low area values in this postural condition.

Conclusions: Singing is a multitask situation which involves several movements including breathing, and management of factors such as stress. This can affect balance and so rigorous work on posture and proprioception is required as soon as a singer begins to perform in order to take care of the voice.

Keywords: Lyric singers; Postural control.