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[donstefano]

What do you guy do to keep your voice healthy? Most of my teaching consists of large lectures (often with microphone though), but I always have a tendency to speak pretty loud. After 1,5 h of talking, my throat hurts. Any good voice use techniques? Did anyone follow training on this?

[infopri]

You may know this, but for those who don't:  There is a difference between speaking loudly and projecting your voice.  The former will kill your throat far faster than the latter.  To project, one must use the diaphragm, rather than just the throat and vocal chords.  Folks here on the fora (especially if there are any singers or public speakers) can probably provide you with resources for learning how to project.

I do project, but three classes a day (my schedule when I was on the TT) did a number on my voice anyway.  I always took something to drink into class with me.  I used to bring coffee, then tea (after I gave up coffee), but often I just took water.  The point is to keep your throat moist.

Also, can you design in-class activities that would give your voice a rest?  Have the students do some group work, or make them talk more through class discussion (vs. you lecturing).  One of my courses lent itself well to role-playing exercises and to student presentations.  Can you do anything like these activities?

[voxprincipalis]

http://chronicle.com/forums/index.php/topic,38564.0.html

http://chronicle.com/forums/index.php/topic,48042.0.html

http://chronicle.com/forums/index.php/topic,45594.0.html

http://chronicle.com/forums/index.php/topic,44368.0.html

[geheim]

OP, I recommend getting yourself over to the music department and having consult with a voice teacher (singer) there to help you develop and understanding of your body as it relates to breathing and breath support when making sound. You may have a colleague who is willing to give you a few sessions without charge. If a cross-campus colleague came to me for help, I know that I would offer it.

[gourmetless]

Or the theatre department... Or Communications.  There is likely someone there who specializes in vocal production.  I have done work like this in the past with people from other departments.

Breathe.  USe the disphragm not the throat to carry sound.

Keep hydrated.

Warm up.  Humming is great for loosening the vocal folds.  Tongue twisters are great for getting your voice ready to work.  Before you leave your office, talk out loud for a bit.

[sikora]

I think the music department is a good bet.  I've been struggling with my voice for coming up on 3 years.  I'm now getting voice therapy, and the procedures and exercises are very much like those my niece, a budding opera singer, does. 

The condition I have is called muscle tension dysphonia. I am certain it started with straining to teach 10 lectures a week.

http://www.dukehealth.org/HealthLibrary/CareGuides/VoiceCareCenter/Patient_Resources/muscle_tension_dysphonia/