The spelling of "head register" is based on the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription. In IPA, the word is transcribed as /hɛd ˈrɛdʒɪstər/. The "h" represents the voiceless glottal fricative sound, followed by the sound of "eh" as in "bed". The "d" at the end of "head" is pronounced softly or as a glottal stop. The "r" in "register" is pronounced as a retroflex approximant, and the stress falls on the second syllable, indicated by the apostrophe.
Head register, as a term in phonetics, refers to the highest range of pitch produced by the human voice when speaking or singing. It is located in the uppermost part of the vocal range, characterized by a lighter and more resonant quality. In head register, the sound is primarily produced through the vibration and resonance of the vocal folds, as opposed to the chest register where the sound is generated from the vibrations of the chest cavity.
When using the head register, a person tends to feel the vibrations higher up in their head, often associated with a "head voice" sensation. This register is typically employed in the production of high-pitched notes, such as those encountered in falsetto singing or when emphasizing certain sounds in speech.
Proper control and mastery of the head register are essential for singers and public speakers to achieve crisp and clear high notes. Singers often undergo exercises to strengthen and extend their head register, allowing them to expand their vocal range and access a broader spectrum of tones.
In summary, the head register refers to the highest and lightest part of the vocal range, characterized by a resonant and vibrant quality. It is often used for producing high-pitched notes and is crucial for singers and speakers to develop control and mastery over their vocal abilities.
The term "head register" comes from a combination of the Middle English word "hed" (meaning "head") and the Latin word "registrare" (meaning "to keep a record"). In its original sense, "head register" referred to a written or official record of names or information kept by a governing body or organization. Over time, the term has also been adopted and used in various fields, such as music, where it refers to a specific vocal range or musical technique.