Smith Accent Technique A Holistic Therapy Approach Smith Accent Technique Pre-requisites for Providing voice therapy Smith Accent Technique The Scientific background Breathing For Speech and Song • Muscular Forces during expiratory phase of speech: – Earlier View: - Rib Cage( internal intercostals): primary motor elements - Abdominal ms. : only active in - loud speech - near the end of the expiratory phase Breathing For Speech and Song - Current Research: 1. Abdominal muscles are continuously active throughout the expiratory phase of speech breathing - The inward abdominal displacement - Produces volume displacement in the expiratory direction - Generates/ regulates expiratory subglottal pressure for speech and song. - Optimize expiratory function of the ribcage. (Watson and hixon 2001, Kent, 1997, Hixon and Weismer 1995) Breathing For Speech and Song 2. Abdominal muscles show decrements in its activity during the inspiratory phases of some speech breathing cycles. - These brief decrements were associated with momentary decrease in the impedence offered by the abdomen, allowing diaphragmatic contraction during inspiration  leading to Outward displacement of the abdominal wall (Hoit et al, 1988) Smith Accent Technique Background Charachteristics Background Information about the Smith Accent (SA) Technique • Development: In 1936 by Sven Smith, a Danish Phoniatrician. • Potential clients: A wide variety of patients with voice disorders, ranging from functional dysphonia up to vocal fold paralysis. Main Characteristics of SA • Addresses voice problems in a holistic manner. – Focuses On : breathing and phonation, – Continuously Modifies : posture, articulation, and resonance. Main Characteristics of SA • Teaches active contraction of the abdominal muscles through rhythmic exercises of gradually increasing speed. – Largo (slow speed) – Andante (medium speed) – Allegro (fast Speed)