When we discuss breathing we must include posture. Without the correct posture for singing breath management is impossible. For optimal singing the chest must be high, the shoulders relaxed and back, and the body aligned. the head should be comfortably back (gently moving toward the back wall), the neck log, the knees slightly bent to…
Most of the students who come to us are interested only in singing popular music – which is often sadly limited to what they are exposed to on the radio and T.V. This is totally understandable. I remember starting voice lessons as a young teen and being very disappointed that my teacher had no idea…
Earlier this month, we shared some tips on singing authentically in every style. Here are some further words of advice on the subject: Diction and dialect also contribute to making the sound more authentic. Country Style Country singing is filled with dropped final consonants such as G; in country music you would say singin’ rather…
Effective practice involves reflection and self-analysis. Effective practice is consistent, focused practice. It is not a “warm-up”- it is deliberate, intentional, goal-driven hard work. Vocal practice should be a part of every day, at the same time every day if at all possible, with one day per week off for rest and recovery. This is…
TRICIA GREY, MM Onset can be defined as the manner in which a vocal tone is initiated. The initiation of vocal tone determines the quality of the sound, and thus is of primary importance to us as singers and teachers. I would like to discuss the various types of onset here, and to make…
What is stage fright and how can it be avoided? I believe that when a singer is at all insecure about whether or not their voice will work under pressure, they become anxious about exposing themselves to public scrutiny. Without a solid foundation of vocal technique, stepping into the limelight and risking possible humiliation if…
So, you’ve seen one of the many television shows such as American Idol, The Voice, or The X-Factor, and you have decided that singing is your passion. You would like to someday be on one of these shows, or perhaps touring the world with a band of your own. You go out one evening and…
One of the most insidious and incorrect notions about singing talent is “Either you have it or you don’t”. That psychologically damaging point of view prevents many people from even attempting to reach for their dream of becoming a good singer. I recently had a student come to me whose mother constantly told her not…
Do think that singing and voice lessons are only for opera singers? Do you think that working with a voice teacher or vocal coach will change the unique quality of your voice? Many Rock, Pop, Gospel and R & B singers who come to my Sing Like a Star vocal studios for lessons have these…
Breathing correctly is one of the elements involved in good vocal production, but it is by no means the only important function. I am always astounded when singers come to me from other teachers who have them do nothing but breathing exercises for weeks (or sometimes months). These singers often become very good breathers but…
