- Definition
Head tone is a higher-pitched singing sound that feels like it's vibrating in your child's head, rather than their chest.
Making a light, floaty 'hoo' sound like an owl is a great way to find your head tone.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Singing in your head tone is like making a little bell ring inside your head, creating a light, bright sound.
Ask your child: When you sing a high, light note, where do you feel it buzz?
Common mix-up: Kids may confuse head tone with straining to sing high notes. Head tone is a relaxed, light sound that feels like it's resonating in your head, not being forced from your chest or throat.
Examples
- Singing the high part of 'Happy Birthday' softly and without any pushing.
- Making a quiet 'wee' sound like a mouse to feel the vibration in your head.
head tone is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
