| Abstract | Objective: The purpose of this study is to outline a case of primary muscle tension dysphonia (pMTD) in a classical clarinetist, resolved through the implementation of the basic principles and hierarchy provided by resonant voice therapy (RVT). The patient, a 34 year old female with a DMA in clarinet performance, presented to the CUIMC Voice Center multidisciplinary clinic with complaints of strain, loss of endurance, and reduced range while playing the clarinet. These complaints appeared following an upper respiratory infection through which she had maintained her intensive practice schedule.
Speech therapy was offered, with a hypothesis of a similar underlying physiological mechanism to pMTD in singers. Notably, clarinetists in advanced levels of training frequently implement a strategy called “voicing”, during which they actively vibrate the vocal folds and manipulate the resonatory structures of the oral cavity and pharynx to facilitate improved tone quality, articulation and intonation, especially at higher pitches.
Methods: Videostoboscopy will be reviewed, with a comparison of pre/post intervention, as well as a comparison of physiological action while implementing forward-resonance strategies. The hierarchical foundation of RVT will be reviewed and mirrored onto exercises relevant to the instrumentalist.
Results: Through implementation of RVT, the patient achieved full resolution of her muscle tension dysphonia, and further accomplished technical improvement beyond her original capacity – namely increased her pitch range and improved her pitch accuracy at highest pitches.
Conclusion: This case study points to the cross-disciplinary applicability of RVT fundamentals when supporting woodwind instrumentalists experiencing fatigue and strain.
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