What is the Difference Between Head Voice and Chest Voice?

The main difference between head voice and chest voice lies in the range of tones and the resonance they produce. Here are 4 key differences between the two:

1. Range: Chest voice covers the mid to lower range of a voice, while head voice consists of the higher range.
2. Resonance: Chest voice refers to lower, thicker, and warmer tones, reflecting the register we normally use for speaking. Head voice, on the other hand, is associated with higher notes and is created by thin vocal cords.
3. Vibrations: When singing in chest voice, you can feel the vibration in your chest, whereas head voice creates a vibration in your head.
4. Airflow: A fully supported airflow distinguishes head voice from falsetto, with head voice producing a stronger sound than the breathy falsetto.

The ultimate goal for singers is to be able to blend and switch between their head voice and chest voice, creating a mixed voice that can fluidly transition from the lowest chest voice to the highest head voice note. This ability to transition between the two voices smoothly is highly desirable for singers of all types and helps them achieve a more versatile and even vocal tone.

Comparative Table: Head Voice vs Chest Voice

Here is a table comparing the differences between head voice and chest voice:

The ultimate goal for singers is to be able to blend and switch between head voice and chest voice, creating a mixed voice that allows them to reach their maximum potential and navigate between the two registers seamlessly.