An anthropometric analysis of the head and face in vocal students.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was an anthropometric analysis of the values of selected cranial and facial indexes in vocal students and a comparison of these values with the standards for the same ethnic and age group of non-singing students. PATIENTS AND METHODOLOGY: 56 vocal students, aged 19-26 years, were examined. Standard instruments, such as sliding and spreading callipers and soft measuring tape, were used for the examination. A set of 32 linear measurements of the head and face was provided. RESULTS: In all head measurements the obtained results were greater for the vocal students. The vocal students revealed greater values of the indexes related to face width and depth of the lower jaw. In the comparison group the indices for the middle and lower part of the face were significantly higher. CONCLUSION: Vocalists have bigger heads and mandibles than non-singers.