Asymmetric vibrations of a finite-element model of the vocal folds were analyzed using the method of empirical eigenfunctions. In a previous study of symmetric vibrations from the model, periodic vibrations yielded two dominant eigenfunctions, which were related to the theoretical normal modes of the model. In a more recent study, the method of empirical eigenfunctions was applied to high-speed endoscopic imaging of vocal fold vibration on human subjects, suggesting several mechanisms of irregular vibration. However, in the in vivo study, the investigation of empirical eigenfunctions was limited to the superior view provided by endoscopy. The results of the present computational study were compared with the in vivo study, while providing additional information regarding vocal fold vibration along the medial surface of the folds. Moreover, the computational study allowed the asymmetric vibrations to be studied systematically as a function of tissue stiffness. [Work supported by Grant No. R29 DC03072 from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.]