"The Art of Breathing"

1/3/2025

Tricks and Tips – Music

The Art of Breathing

Most individuals who perform as singers know that breathing is a critical part of that skill.

Amateur singers often express frustration at the poor quality of their vocal efforts, especially during hours-long shows or over frequent performances. There are a number of missteps a singer can take that will often create a less-than perfect performance.

In this article I would like to offer a few suggestions that I have heard over the years.

First, and this is more of a folk remedy rather than scientific methodology…

For those suffering from an inflamed throat and or over-taxed vocal cords, prior to each performance, drinking ginger tea with lemon and honey is said to be quite effective in reducing the inflammation that may be interfering with your vocals. I, myself have turned to this elixir from time to time.

I found a simple recipe for making this tea online at https://foodenergies.com/how-to-make-ginger-tea-for-singers/

Sipping/drinking water before, during and after each performance will certainly help in sustaining your voice and overall energy levels. Water is essential for life in general and drinking clean water goes a long way in improving your general health and well-being.

Second, finding your range. I attend and have hosted several open mic nights at local pubs and coffeehouses over the years. Encouraging young performers to experience the world of music and live entertainment brings me much joy.

One of the greatest mistakes I see is an individual writing or singing a song that is way above or below their personal vocal range. In order to avoid straining the voice in this way, some rehearsal before a performance is warranted. This is your chance to “test fly” any music you are planning to present during your performance.

With the advent of Bluetooth background music, many young people are able to do a karaoke version of their preferred artists material. These are songs listened to and often sung in the shower, so to speak. Singing along with the original artist gives many a feeling that they too could be a star. It is also a means to connect socially with others who similarly enjoy the music you prefer.

However, it is often the case that the singer has a wider range of notes than that of an untrained voice. Attempting to sing notes that are higher or lower than your range quickly results in a straining of the vocal chords, leading to a less-than-perfect rendition of the song.

As I do my research on each of my articles, I often find existing resources that seem very useful. In this case, I did a search for “finding your singing range. I found several websites that had on-line programs to help you sort this out. I know that some of them will want you to buy into some sort of program to enhance your singing potential, while others may not. Look for free resources whenever you can unless you are willing to make a serious investment in your singing career. Private singing lessons will always include a period of assessing your singing range and other skills necessary for improving your vocal performance.

I would recommend to those seeking to emulate their favorite singer, that they change the music to better fit their own voice. By raising or lowering the key that the song was written in by an octave or two, the musical fit will bring out the best in the songs they are trying to perform.

http://www.howtosingsmarter.com/transposition-chart/ is one of many websites that discusses transpositions and their value in musical performances.

Third, warmups can make a big difference in your vocal performance. In the following video, Professor Roger Hale goes through a warmup sequence with a class of music students. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnJW-8a26OA

There are many more vocal warmup videos out there on the world wide web. The whole purpose of these exercises is to stretch your vocal chords and adjust your posture for the best performance possible.

Fourth, and my final tip is to learn the best breathing techniques to use while you are singing. Many novice performers don’t know how to use their lungs, abdominal muscles, ribcage and diaphragm to regulate the amount of air flowing in and out of their bodies.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzrHSAFV-EM&t=4s and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WR2772TGrgo&list=PLaWjWxiTysDAWvfzeqV-DjsPpG0MNIYwW

I chose these two videos as being excellent examples from a professional singer who has years of experience and training. Victoria Rapanan explains techniques for inhaling and exhaling air while you sing. This information is very technical but will change the way you breath for optimal singing.

Again, I would remind my readers that the internet is filled with articles and videos that could be considered useful information but be aware of those who propose shortcuts or enhancement drugs or drinks that they market as big secrets for success. You cannot disregard the need for good trustworthy knowledge and practice, practice, practice!

In closing, it takes every artist time and energy to perfect their skills. Singing is no different if we want to impress others with our vocal talents.

Follow your dreams – Make More Art! M.True