How to Improve Singing

Singing is a skill that requires practice and dedication – just like being an excellent athlete who needs to train and develop muscle control.

Singing can have numerous advantages, such as improving your breathing technique and relieving stress. It’s also an excellent way to develop vocal cords and build stamina.

Warm-up

Warm-up exercises help singers warm up their vocal folds before performing, which reduces the risk of damage or injury. They also enable singers to improve breath support, tone production and breath control.

Ideal timing for your singing warm-up is 20 minutes prior to your performance, to ensure that your voice is in optimal condition. However, if the performance is early in the day, take an additional five minutes to ensure all breathing, voicing and resonance exercises have been completed.

For beginners, a great vocal warm-up should include some tongue twisters to release jaw tension and improve breath flow control. These exercises are easy to learn and can help build a strong voice with better control.

This exercise is ideal for singers looking to develop their upper range and high notes. Start by making a long “oh” sound and holding it until you reach about two octaves above your normal range, then gradually slide down until your lowest note. Practicing this exercise several times daily will help build up endurance and vocal strength.

Breathing

Breathing techniques are an integral component of improving your singing. Not only will they enhance your voice quality, but they also expand your lung capacity.

The correct breathing technique can enable you to reach higher notes without straining yourself, and it also shields your voice from injury.

Begin by focusing on your diaphragm. Inhale slowly for four counts, exhale quickly for four counts, and repeat this cycle.

This popular technique helps singers develop their breath control. Additionally, it can enhance phrasing and dynamics.

Similar to proper posture, a sound breathing technique is essential for singing. Be sure to fill your lungs completely and avoid raising your shoulders or chest in any way.

Posture

Singing is a holistic experience, meaning your singing posture plays an integral role in optimizing the voice. Bad posture can affect the sound of your voice and give off an unattractive impression, leading to feelings of unworthiness or low self-worth.

Good news! There are a few simple techniques you can use to correct your posture, which not only enhances the sound of your voice but also promotes healthy body maintenance.

Breathe in and out through your diaphragm while straightening your spine. Your stomach should expand as you inhale, and exhaling should release any tension in your body.

A proper singing posture will create the largest space possible in your chest cavity for your lungs to expand fully when you inhale, enabling you to sing longer phrases without taking extra breaths. Furthermore, it will reduce strain on your neck and shoulders.

Pitch

Pitchy vocals can be a major issue for singers, as the quality of your performance relies on them. But there are steps you can take to improve your singing and ensure every note you sing is in tune.

Singers must possess the ability to hear notes and match them with their voice – this ability is known as ear training. This talent can be taught and developed over time.

The initial step in ear training is selecting a target note and then trying to match it with your voice. You can do this on an instrument, digital tuner, or music app by singing along with it and listening for how it sounds as you sing it.