Singing medical question

Now that I am getting into my head voice, when I sing at certain frequencies, I am experiencing some annoying buzzing/rattling deep in my right ear cavity.

What could it be? Infection? Ear wax? Permanent ear damage when I was younger? A foreign object or tiny animal lodged in my head?

Maybe I'll have to make an appointment with the ear/nose/throat specialist.

Beakybird

This is an answer I got from Mark Baxter, famous vocal coach who's students have included Steve Tyler of Aerosmith:

Hey Larry,

The buzzing is good news -- it's resonance! Any cavity is a potential resonator, and which one vibrates all depends on frequency. The size of your ear canal will only accommodate higher frequencies because it's so small. The bigger question is; why isn't the left ear buzzing? That's most likely an ear wax or tension issue.

Sometimes notes trigger a sensation inside my mouth that feels like my fillings are all about to fall out of my teeth. Some notes buzz my ears. These resonate pockets add subtlety the projected sound of your voice. Most importantly, they indicate a well produced fundamental at the larynx and that you have an optimal environment surrounding the larynx.

Good job!

Regards,

Mark Baxter

So, if I had a total lobotomy would I end up with a much improved singing voice.?

Scratch that. Some folks I know would tell you I've already had such procedure performed.

One question: Is the annoyance factor caused by this "buzzing/rattling" enough to be a distraction to your singing? If so, I'm not sure that it's such a good thing after all.

If the drunk in front of you talking loudly while you sing your best ballad isn't enough of a distraction to make you stop singing, why would a little buzz on certain notes?

Well, now that I know that it is normal, it doesn't bother me, but it's still a little strange, but I think I can get used to it.

I just didn't want to have to go to a doctor.

Last time I swallowed a dime. I went to the doctor, and he made me cough up $100 .

Beakybird

[This message has been edited by Beakybird (edited 08-12-2009).]