02.18.08
Keeping the Voice in Shape
“What are some good exercises for me to do to keep my voice in shape when I’m not taking lessons?” - April S.
April,
I like the phrase “keep my voice in shape.” Many people forget that singing is a physical discipline and that our singing mechanisms can “get out of shape” just as much as the rest of us can. When you are between voice teachers, the two things you want to keep up are:
1. Muscle-memory for healthy breathing technique. Try to concentrate on your breathing for 10 minutes a day (I often practice mine when I’m waiting for the bus or waiting in line for coffee, etc.) Remember to keep your shoulders and neck relaxed as you expand low, into your abdomen. Pay attention to how your body expands, you may even feel it into your mid-back. Then exhale a slow, controlled breath, feeling your abdomen pull in - bellybutton toward spine. Focus on the breath - be deliberate and controlled.
2. Familiarity with your singing techniques. Whether it’s hitting high notes cleanly, or belting out a Broadway song with volume and power, you have probably worked on techniques with your voice teacher before. One part of keeping a technique “in shape” is staying familiar with how it feels to do it. Get a CD of vocal exercises (see my blog, The Importance of Personal Practice, for a link to a recommended practice CD.) As you use the CD focus on one technique per exercise. For example: just work on relaxing on the high notes, or focus only on keeping your throat open. Focusing on one technique keeps practice time streamlined and will help avoid frustration or boredom.
~ Rebeqa
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