The Voice is a Delicate Instrument: John Mayer's 2nd Operation for Removal of a Granuloma

The Voice is a Delicate and Abused Instrument- What a medical phenomenon to operate and recover!

Many a singer does not realize the delicate nature of their instrument.  The human voice is a wonderful instrument, but it can be sensitive and needs attention when things don't feel quite right or an illness impedes its' function. 

Everyone is given a different instrument- some can sustain years and years of singing at high intensity, some need more attention to rest time and have food sensitivities, and yet still others do not have as much natural ability to produce a pleasant melody.  The daily use and abuse of the vocal cords is amazing.  Think about it, we use the same instrument when we sing and when we speak.

John Mayer recently withstood his second operation to remove a granuloma from his vocal cords.  Medicine is amazing and doctor's are attempting to restore and improve the pop musician's voice using botox injections, complete silence for 5 months, and then voice therapy. It is not the first time (for him or other vocal greats), but a true example of how the voice can be a wonderful yet finicky instrument. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7B4q0cF0aE  After scoping his cords a second time, they found that the granuloma removed a few years prior was removed again.  He had to suspend a tour and not sing for 5 months.  A scope of his cords later, revealed that it had almost entirely healed. The botox paralized the muscles so that the cord could not meet at all for a period of time.  His voice is more raspy right now, but with due diligence he can regain and improve his voice. 

This is a humbling experience for him and a reminder that the voice is such a delicate instrument.  How much use and abuse can the voice withstand?  What is he learning from vocal rest? What is he emotionally able to contribute to musical society after this experience?  He wanted everyone to like him and made every sacrifice to get it.  What impact did this have on his vocal situation?  After spending time alone and in silence, who knows what the musical icon may give us now? 

Is this situation NEW to vocal musicians?  Not really, read next week about Steven Tyler and the average person who struggles with their speaking and singing voice. I would love to hear your experiences as well.  www.healthyandconfidentsingingvoice.blogspot.com