04.21.08
Maintaining Technique with an Audience
“Sometimes when I am singing in front of people I find that I become short of breath and can’t make it to the end of phrases that I otherwise had no problem with. Is there any advice you can give me to make this stop happening?”
- Michelle S.
Michelle,
Even for experienced performers, maintaining technique in front of an audience is a whole ‘nother bag of tricks than practicing by ourselves. There are two factors that are most likely affecting your ability to sustain a held note:
1. Nervous Tension. The anxiety of being on stage is the same as any other anxiety - it ignites our “fight or flight” instinct. One side effect of this is that our legs and stomach become tense, inhibiting diaphragmatic breathing. Next time you’re in front of an audience, be aware of any tension in your body - from your feet to the top of your head. Believe it or not, the entire body is actually connected (!gasp! No?!), and tension anywhere will migrate to other parts and cause problems for you. Also, when you reach the end of the breath, make sure you’re not contracting your sternum downward (as though you were doing a stomach-crunch). This collapses your lungs and can trap a little bit of air that you do have and make it unusable. Instead, keep your sternum lifted and focus on allowing the lower abdomen and pelvic floor press the air out (this will feel anti-instinct, but just try it a few times, I think you’ll be surprised).
2. Distractions. Most singers prefer to practice in an environment that allows them to focus. Unfortunately, the center of the spotlight is not such a place. On stage we’re worried about our balance, not tripping on instrument cords, and keeping the energy level up. It’s very important that you practice your technique enough that when you’re on stage it comes naturally. Then, focus on disciplining yourself to constantly monitor your technique, making sure it’s still intact throughout your performance. Check that your shoulders are relaxed, that your throat is open, that your posture is supporting the breath.
As you get more comfortable on stage you’ll find that tension will decrease and the normal distractions will fade into the background. Until then, try to relax and keep up the practicing!
~ Rebeqa
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