What's the Difference Between Head Voice and Falsetto?

Image illustration of vocal cord position when singing in falsetto vs singing in head voice. The falsetto image depicts the vocal cords apart whereas the vocal cords are together in head voice. — Depiction of vocal cord position in falsetto vs. head voice.

The main difference between head voice and falsetto is muscle involvement and vocal cord closure. Head voice involves full vocal cord closure with active engagement of both the Thyroarytenoid (TA) and Cricothyroid (CT) muscles, producing a clear, connected tone. Falsetto relies mostly on the CT muscles with minimal TA involvement, causing incomplete cord closure and a breathier, airy sound. Check out this scientific breakdown for more details if you really want to geek out on voice science

When singers first come into my studio, one of the biggest confusions I hear about is understanding head voice and falsetto. They might sound similar at first, but knowing the difference can change how effectively you use your voice.

Understanding Head Voice

Realistic image the vocal cords adducted (together) when singing in head voice. — Vocal cord position in head voice (adducted vocal folds).

When you're singing in head voice, you'll feel the resonance mostly around your head, behind your eyes, or in your forehead. It's a lighter, clear sound but remains connected and strong.

What's happening inside is important: both your Thyroarytenoid (TA) muscles, which shorten and thicken your vocal cords, and your Cricothyroid (CT) muscles, which stretch and thin your cords, are actively working together. Your vocal cords stretch and thin out, but they still close fully. This complete closure gives your head voice that clear, resonant tone.

Understanding Falsetto

Realistic image of the vocal cords apart (abducted) while singing in falsetto. — Vocal cord position in falsetto (abducted vocal folds).

Falsetto feels lighter and breathier—like you're almost whispering your notes. When you use falsetto, your voice has a distinct airy quality, kind of like a gentle flute-like sound.

This happens because your CT muscles are doing most of the work, stretching your vocal cords very thinly, while your TA muscles largely disengage or relax significantly. Your vocal cords don't close completely, so air escapes freely, creating that soft, breathy quality.

Common Myths About The Difference Between Head Voice and Falsetto

Let's quickly clear up two common myths:

Myth: "Falsetto is just a weak head voice." Actually, falsetto is a different coordination of your vocal muscles entirely. It isn't weak head voice; it's a separate mechanism of sound production.
Myth: "Head voice and falsetto mean the same thing." Nope. Even though people sometimes use them interchangeably, they involve distinct muscular patterns and vocal cord actions.

Visualizing the Difference

Imagine your vocal cords like two elastic bands. In head voice, they're stretched tight but pressed together firmly, letting little air escape. In falsetto, they're stretched thin but loosely touching, allowing air to flow freely.

Why It Matters

Understanding these differences helps you control your singing more accurately, improve vocal health, and expand your artistic range. Feel free to experiment and notice these sensations for yourself next time you practice.

About Emmett Hayes and Emmett Hayes Voice Studio

Hey, I'm Emmett Hayes, a vocal coach based in Roseville, CA, and the founder of Emmett Hayes Voice Studio. I've trained singers for over 20 years in mastering exceptional vocal technique used by top industry professionals and vocal artists. Curious to dive deeper or improve your singing? Check out my voice lessons or learn more about our vocal coaching method.