Weekly Insight #16: Seeing Sound – Visual Learning Through the IPA

In previous insights, we introduced the five core vowels—/i/, /e/, /a/, /o/, /u/—and their role in vocal clarity. This week, we’ll focus on how these vowels transition from one to the next, much like colors blending seamlessly on a palette. 

To guide us, we turn to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). This tool goes beyond describing sounds—it provides a universal system for visualizing how sounds are formed. What makes the IPA especially powerful is its inclusivity. By taking the core vowel sounds from Romance languages, it creates a system that crosses linguistic boundaries. Unlike phonetic systems tailored to specific languages, the IPA offers a way to communicate about sounds in a more versatile, universal manner. 

This accessibility is what makes the IPA such a valuable resource for vocal exploration. Whether you’re singing, speaking, or refining your technique, it helps you visualize and understand the unique ways your voice creates sound. 

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A Real-Life Example: The Power of a Round Vowel

This photo from La Traviata captures a moment where a carefully shaped, round vowel amplifies both the sound and emotional depth of the performance. The clarity of a rounded /o/ or /u/ vowel is not just technical—it’s expressive, creating resonance and presence that carry through the hall.

Using a well-shaped vowel in a dramatic moment from La Traviata. (Opéra Biarritz)

The Art of Gradual Transitions

Imagine shifting colors on a computer palette, where one shade blends effortlessly into the next. The five core vowels follow a similar progression, flowing naturally between shapes:

1. /i/ (see):
• The tip of the tongue typically touches the back of the lower teeth.
• The rest of the tongue reacts, often curving higher, depending on the speaker.
• The jaw maintains a round, vertical shape, keeping the mouth aligned for clarity.
2. /e/ (chaos):
• The tongue stays in the same position as /i/, with the tip still near the lower teeth.
• The jaw drops gradually, opening slightly more than for /i/.
3. /a/ (father):
• The tongue relaxes completely into the lower palate.
• The jaw opens further to accommodate the wider vowel shape.
4. /o/ (oh):
• The tongue stays inactive, and the lips round slightly.
• The jaw closes slightly compared to /a/, focusing the sound through the lips.
5. /u/ (food):
• Like /o/, this vowel relies on lip rounding, which becomes more pronounced.
• The tongue remains at rest, with the shape shaped entirely by the lips.

Practicing the Five Core Vowels

Here’s how to practice these vowels and observe their progression:

1. Vocalize the Sequence:
   Say the vowels in this order: 
   /i/ (see), /e/ (chaos), /a/ (father), /o/ (oh), /u/ (food).
   Focus on how each vowel flows into the next, like colors blending on a palette.

2. Mirror Work:
   Use a mirror or reverse camera to observe: 

   • The tongue’s positioning for /i/ and /e/. 

   • The jaw’s gradual opening as you progress through the sequence. 

   • The lips rounding for /o/ and /u/. 

3. Feel the Difference:
   Focus on how the front vowels (/i/, /e/) use more tongue engagement, while the back vowels (/o/, /u/) rely primarily on the lips. 

4. Record and Reflect:
   Create a video of yourself practicing the sequence. Watching your movements and hearing your sound will reinforce your learning. 

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Why This Visualization Matters

By using the IPA as a guide, you gain a universal framework for understanding vowel production. Its roots in Romance languages provide a simplicity and inclusivity that make it accessible across linguistic boundaries. This clarity allows you to focus on the physical movements—subtle shifts in the tongue, lips, teeth, and jaw—that shape these sounds. 

Adding tools like mirrors and recordings enhances your awareness, helping you see, hear, and feel your progress in real time. 

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The Key Takeaway

The five core vowels—/i/, /e/, /a/, /o/, /u/—are more than sounds. They’re tools for building clarity, consistency, and control in your voice. By practicing with intention, visualizing their transitions, and using the IPA as your guide, you’ll unlock greater confidence and precision. 

It’s also important to remember that these descriptions are general guidelines. Every voice, every mouth, and every vocal instrument is unique. As you practice, take time to observe how your own articulators—your tongue, teeth, lips, and jaw—naturally shape these vowels. 

Don’t worry if your vowels don’t align perfectly with the descriptions here. Instead, use this information as a starting point for discovery. Notice what you do and ask yourself: Is this the most efficient way for me to produce this vowel? Over time, further observation and awareness will help you unlock what works best for your voice. 

Vocal practice isn’t about rigidly following a single method—it’s about discovering the most effective way to use your unique instrument. 

Take time this week to explore these vowels. Use the visuals, tools, and exercises to deepen your connection with your voice and bring intentionality to your practice. 

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Engage with Me

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you tried using IPA symbols or specific vocal exercises in your practice? How do you approach improving your vocal clarity? Share your experiences, ask questions, or let me know what topics you’d like to see explored in future posts. 

And if you’d like to dive deeper into these techniques, I explore more practical exercises and insights throughout my book. It’s all about making the process of voice production practical, accessible, and tailored to your unique needs. 

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