Expert: Jody Doktor - 1/28/2012

Question
I am working at expanding my falsetto range - I can reach D5 (just!) and only touch on E5 in a run. My falsetto from C4 to C5 is very good though. Is it unlikely I'll be able to sing above that comfortably if the notes aren't naturally there or could I possibly coax the voice over time? I think that there is tongue tension as I ascend and, more worrying, I get an inexplicable tension in my neck beneath my skull!

Answer
I do think that you would be able to extend your range over time, provided that you are able to eliminate the tongue and jaw tension.  If you are not well-grounded in terms of your breathing, your jaw and tongue will attempt to compensate to "assist" the voice.  This is what leads to tension.  Tongue tension can cause the larynx (voice box) to become pulled-up and out of its ideal neutral position.  If you can work for a stable, low laryngeal position, you will find that your range will increase (without forcing it).

Good luck.  I recommend working in front of a mirror so you can spot it when your larynx is raising up or when your tongue stops lying flat in your mouth.