Information Technique Advice
 

 

When it comes to voice training and vocal techniques, many questions abound. I have answered some of my more frequently asked ones below.

If you have a specific question, type it here and I will personally answer it for you via e-mail.

 

E-mail:

First Name:

Question:

 

Dear Laura,
I have been told that I can’t carry a tune in a bucket. But I love to sing. Can you train me to sing in spite of my inability to carry a tune?

  Signed,
Tuneless In Tacoma
Dear Tuneless,
It is impossible to accurately answer this question without having heard you sing. But I do know there is a musical condition called “tone deaf” in some individuals. In order to sing on key you must have the ability to hear the pitch being introduced. There are some techniques that can be taught that may improve your ability to determine pitches and be able to tonally match them. There are some great tools on the market that might be able to help you too. Check out “The Secrets of Singing on Pitch” by Howard Richman or www.soundfeelings.com. Results strictly depend on the person. Remember the that you can always make a joyful noise, regardless as to how it may sound to others! Be encouraged.
Dear Laura,
I’ve been told that I sing mezzo-soprano. I’d like to stretch my range and sing first soprano without straining my voice. Is this possible? Can you stretch your range?
  Signed,
Shanna in Jersey
Dear Shanna,
Yes, you can stretch the vocal range… but you must do so with the proper training! Just as you have the ability to re-shape human body muscles, you can successfully do the same with the singing voice. Although the vocal chords are not muscle, because they are soft tissue mass, they respond like muscle. I highly recommend finding a certified voice teacher in your area who can properly instruct you and help you reach your goal to increase your range safely. A few good sources to check for certified voice teachers would be www.musicstaff.com, www.nats.org or www.mtna.org
Dear Laura,
I am a professional singer and travel an awful lot to meet the demands of our growing fame and lots of fans! Lately, I’ve been experiencing hoarseness after I’ve been performing just a short period of time. Should I be concerned? I’ve tried gargling, lemon juice with honey and other remedies. They seem to work short term but doesn’t solve the problem. What can I do?
  Thank you,
Lisa

Dear Lisa,
Even though I am not a doctor… I would say that anytime, as a professional singer, you start to experience what we’d classify as a “Work related hazard”, I’d check into it, as it might be a clear indication of an early stage of various conditions. You could be suffering from iTiredi – which is associated with being tired and needing rest, iSorei – associated with singing incorrectly or more serious conditions like nodules, cysts, gastroesophageal reflux abnormality (acid reflux disease)… the list could go on. I’d recommend that you make an appointment with a Laryngologist, MD. These doctors are able to do certain tests to determine the real problem. Meanwhile, if you have not had any formal voice training, I highly recommend that you get some. Taking voice lessons have been proven to increase vocal efficiency.

Dear Laura,
I have been singing for years as a lounge performer. I’ve performed at well-known casinos and lounges throughout the USA. Recently, a producer heard me perform and invited me to do some studio work. But after my first session, I found that my vocals were harsh and lacked in substance and style. What are some steps I can take to give my studio voice personality and better form?
  Signed,
Miss Lounge Guru

Dear Miss Lounge Guru,
Singing in a lounge and doing studio work are two different species! Whereas both require technique; studio vocals require advanced development. When singing in a lounge atmosphere (i.e. talking, laughing, drinking, socializing, etc.), the emphasis is on projecting and singing out. When doing studio work, the vocal tone must fit the style of music and you must have sufficient breath support and control. Proper communication with your producers is essential in helping you obtain the sound that they are looking for. I’d recommend that you find a vocal instructor to critique your vocals and help you strategically plan out your recording performance.

(Don't forget... If you've got a question, fill out the form!)
Information | Technique | Advice

Copyright © 2003 - Vocally Yours, Charlotte, NC
Site Design by PartaCom Web Solutions