What Are the Vocal Folds?

Your vocal folds—often called vocal cords—are two tiny, flexible muscles located inside your larynx, at the top of your trachea (windpipe) in your throat. On the outside, you can see the larynx as the Adam’s apple, the little bump in the middle of your neck that moves when you swallow.

When you speak, sing, or whisper, air from your lungs passes through the vocal folds. As the folds come together, the air pressure from your lungs forces them to vibrate, creating sound waves. The speed and tension of their vibration determine the pitch of the sound:

• Low pitches: The vocal folds are thicker, looser, and vibrate more slowly, producing deeper sounds.

• High pitches: The vocal folds stretch, thin out, and vibrate faster, producing higher sounds.

Healthy vocal folds are elastic, smooth, and strong. Strain, dehydration, or overuse can lead to hoarseness, nodules, or other vocal issues.

Simple habits—like staying hydrated, warming up before singing, and avoiding excessive shouting—can protect them and keep your voice flexible and vibrant.

Think of your vocal folds like the strings of a finely tuned instrument: by adjusting tension and length, these two tiny muscles can produce an incredible range of tones, colors, and expressions.

Happy practicing!

Coach Nelle