Presenters:
Aliza Rudavsky, DPT
Christine Schneider, LMT, HMS

Title of Presentation:
The Pressure Canister: Applied Manual Techniques for the Voice

Objective:
To introduce the concept of the “pressure canister” in voice production and demonstrate applied manual techniques that enhance breath regulation, laryngeal mobility, and resonance. This workshop aims to provide participants with hands-on tools to support vocal efficiency, reduce strain, and improve performance outcomes.

Methods / Design:
The session integrates a brief lecture, visual aids, live demonstration, and guided practice. Presenters will define the pressure canister system, including the respiratory diaphragm, ribcage, abdominal wall, pelvic floor, and larynx. Participants will be guided through assessments of breathing patterns, vocal quality, and resonance, and then practice three core hands-on strategies: ribcage blocking in supine for breath and pressure regulation, palpation for laryngeal position, movement, and vibration with a supra-hyoid self-release, and extra-oral and intra-oral masseter release (with gloves) for resonance and vocal tract shaping. Practice will be self-applied or with partners, depending on licensure.

Results (Expected Outcomes):
Participants will gain a functional understanding of how breath, pressure regulation, laryngeal vibration, and resonance interact. They will leave with practical manual techniques that can be immediately integrated into clinical or pedagogical settings to enhance vocal efficiency and reduce strain.

Conclusions:
Efficient voice production depends on the regulation of the pressure canister. Manual therapy and hands-on voice techniques offer effective means to support breath management, laryngeal mobility, and resonance shaping. By applying these tools, practitioners can help singers prevent injury, recover more effectively, and sustain long-term vocal health and performance.