KRISTIN SYMES VOICE AND VOCOLOGY STUDIO

interesting debate...Breathing for singing vs. breathing for speaking

10/19/2023

When I am working with clients and begin with vocal function education and specifically how we breathe for singing, I very often get a puzzled look from the receiving party. "Isn't breathing for singing the SAME as breathing for speaking?", well yes and no. Breathing for singing and breathing for speaking are related but involve different techniques and control of airflow. Here are the key differences between the two:

Control and Support:

Singing: When singing, you typically need more control and support over your breath. This is because you need to sustain notes for longer durations, sing with varying dynamics, and control pitch accurately. Singers often use abdominal-diaphragmatic breathing, where the abdominal muscles move outward and the diaphragm contracts downward to draw in more air. This provides a steady and controlled airflow for singing.
Speaking: In speaking, the breath is often more casual and spontaneous. While there is still abdominal-diaphragmatic involvement, it's not as pronounced as in singing. Speaking generally requires less control over breath because the phrases are shorter, and you don't need to sustain pitch or dynamics to the same extent as in singing.

Volume and Intensity:

Singing: Singers need to project their voices, sing at varying volumes, and often sing loudly to reach the audience in large performance spaces. Breath coordination plays a crucial role in modulating volume and intensity.
Speaking: In regular conversation, you don't need to project your voice to the same extent as in singing. Speaking is typically at a lower volume, and you may not need to control your breath as precisely.

Pitch Control:

Singing: Singers use breath control to sustain and manipulate pitch. Changing pitch and transitioning between notes smoothly requires precise control of airflow, which is not as crucial in speaking.
Speaking: While intonation plays a role in speech, it's generally less controlled and less varied compared to singing.

Phrasing and Articulation:

Singing: Singers need to shape and articulate words and phrases while maintaining a steady airflow. This requires careful breath control to ensure smooth transitions between notes and words.
Speaking: In speaking, you might pause more frequently, and articulation is often more relaxed. Breath coordination is used more for rhythm and pacing than for articulation.

Breath Management:

Singing: Singers often learn specific techniques for breath coordination, such as taking controlled breaths at strategic points within a song, using "breath marks" in sheet music, and learning how to control the release of air to create specific vocal effects.
Speaking: In speaking, breath coordination is generally less structured. It's more about ensuring you have enough air to complete your sentences without running out of breath.

Singing and speaking both rely on breath coordination and abdominal diaphragmatic breathing, but the level of control, intensity, and articulation required differs significantly between the two. Singing demands more precise breath coordination to sustain notes, project the voice, and control pitch, while speaking is typically more relaxed and spontaneous in terms of breath usage.

Note: When talking about "speaking", I am referring to typical speaking voice use during a normal day, NOT musical theater, acting, oratorical speaking.

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What are Semi occluded vocal tract exercises??

2/5/2023

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Semi occluded vocal tract exercises are a vital part of voice therapy and are used to help improve voice quality, resonance, and overall vocal health. These exercises may involve partially blocking the vocal tract with a small object, such as a straw or a small piece of foam, to create resistance in the airflow and help build strength in the vocal muscles.

The primary benefit of semi occluded vocal tract exercises is that they allow the vocalist to train their voice in a controlled manner. By blocking the vocal tract, the singer is able to focus on producing sound with proper technique, which helps to improve their overall tone, pitch, and projection. These exercises are also useful in helping to prevent or recover from vocal fold damage, as they allow the vocalist to engage their vocal muscles in a gentle and controlled manner.

There are several different types of semi occluded vocal tract exercises, including straw phonation, lip trills, and sirens. Each of these exercises focuses on different aspects of voice production, such as breath control, vocal resonance, and vocal cord strength. When performed regularly and correctly, these exercises can help to improve vocal endurance, increase the range of the voice, and reduce the risk of vocal cord damage.

Straw phonation is one of the most commonly used semi occluded vocal tract exercises. To perform this exercise, the singer places a straw in their mouth and produces a sustained note. The resistance created by the straw helps to strengthen the vocal muscles and improve breath control. This exercise is particularly useful for those who have trouble sustaining notes or struggle with projection.

Lip trills are another popular semi occluded vocal tract exercise. To perform this exercise, the singer puffs their cheeks out and produces a series of rapid, high-pitched sounds. The resistance created by the closed mouth helps to build strength in the vocal muscles, which can improve overall vocal control.

Sirens are another type of semi occluded vocal tract exercise. To perform this exercise, the singer produces a glissando, or a sliding sound, by starting on a low note and gradually ascending to a high note. The resistance created by the partially closed vocal tract helps to build strength and control in the vocal muscles, which can improve overall voice quality and projection.

Semi occluded vocal tract exercises are an essential part of voice therapy and can provide numerous benefits for vocalists. Whether you are a professional singer, public speaker, or simply looking to improve your voice, these exercises can help you achieve your goals.

To get the most out of your semi occluded vocal tract exercises, it is important to practice regularly and to use proper technique. With time and dedication, you will see significant improvement in your voice quality, resonance, and overall vocal health.

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Performance anxiety

2/5/2023

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Performance anxiety is a common issue among singers, both professional and amateur. The fear of being judged or making mistakes in front of an audience can be debilitating and affect the quality of your performance. Here, we will look at the causes of performance anxiety in singing and how you can manage it.

Causes of Performance Anxiety in Singing

Fear of Making Mistakes: Singers often worry about making mistakes while performing, such as forgetting lyrics or hitting wrong notes. This fear can be compounded if the singer has experienced embarrassment or criticism in the past.
Pressure to Perform Perfectly: Many singers put an immense amount of pressure on themselves to perform perfectly. They believe that anything less than perfection is a failure.
Comparison with Others: Singers often compare themselves with other performers and feel that they are not good enough. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.
Performance Environment: The environment in which a singer performs can also contribute to performance anxiety. For example, performing in front of a large audience or in an unfamiliar setting can be intimidating.

How to Manage Performance Anxiety in Singing

Practice: The more you practice, the more confident you will feel when performing. It’s essential to practice regularly, not just before a performance.
Focus on the Process: Instead of focusing on the outcome, focus on the process of singing. Focus on the music and enjoy the experience of performing.
Relaxation Techniques: Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and visualization, can help calm your nerves and reduce performance anxiety.
Positive Self-Talk: Speak kindly to yourself and focus on your strengths. Remind yourself that you have the skills and talent to perform well.
Seek Support: Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist for support. Talking about your fears can help you overcome them and feel more confident.

Performance anxiety in singing is a common issue, but it can be managed with the right approach. Practice regularly, focus on the process, use relaxation techniques, have positive self-talk, and seek support if needed. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the experience of performing and make music that connects with your audience.

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Singing for Well-Being: A Therapeutic and Joyful Experience

2/5/2023

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Have you ever felt the happiness that singing brings?

If you have, then you know that singing is a source of well-being and a tool for healing. The act of singing has been found to bring physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Whether it’s singing in the shower or joining a choir, singing has the power to improve your overall health and well-being.

One of the key benefits of singing is that it promotes relaxation and stress reduction. When you sing, your body releases endorphins, which are natural mood elevators. This helps you to feel calm and relaxed, which in turn, lowers your stress levels. Singing also helps to reduce anxiety and depression by providing an escape from everyday life and promoting a sense of community and belonging.

Singing is also great for the respiratory system. The deep breathing and controlled use of the diaphragm helps to improve lung capacity and reduces the risk of respiratory issues. Additionally, singing improves overall cardiovascular health by increasing oxygen levels in the bloodstream and lowering blood pressure.

Another major benefit is that singing has been found to boost the immune system. The deep breathing and controlled use of the diaphragm stimulates the lymphatic system, which helps to remove toxins from the body. This, in turn, helps to boost the immune system and prevent illnesses.

Not only is singing great for your health, but it’s also an incredibly joyful experience. Whether you’re singing in a choir or just singing along to your favorite song, singing has the power to bring happiness and positivity into your life. Singing with others provides a sense of community and belonging, which can help to boost self-esteem and confidence.

Overall, singing is a therapeutic and joyful experience that has the power to improve our overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress and anxiety, boost your immune system, or simply enjoy a joyful experience, singing is a great way to achieve all of these things.

So, next time you’re feeling down or just need a little boost, break out into song and enjoy the numerous benefits that singing has to offer!

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hydration Myths & facts

2/5/2023

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Hydration is a crucial aspect of vocal health for singers. In this blog post, we will explore the facts and myths surrounding hydration for singing.

Facts about hydration for singing:

Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining the health of the vocal cords. The vocal cords need sufficient moisture to vibrate effectively and produce clear, vibrant sound.
Dehydration can lead to a loss of vocal control, reduced range, and a lack of projection in the voice. Dry vocal cords can also lead to fatigue, hoarseness, and damage to the vocal cords.
Water is the best hydration option for singers. It is essential to drink plenty of water every day to maintain hydration levels. Avoiding dehydrating beverages such as alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks can also help to keep the vocal cords hydrated.
Singers should aim to drink water regularly throughout the day, and especially before singing or performing. Drinking water before a performance can help to prevent dehydration and reduce the risk of vocal strain or injury.
The amount of water needed for optimal hydration varies from person to person and depends on factors such as age, weight, and activity level. However, it is recommended that singers drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.

Myths about hydration for singing:

Singers don't need to drink water before a performance: This is a myth. Drinking water before a performance is crucial for maintaining the health of the vocal cords and preventing dehydration.
Warm liquids are better for the vocal cords: While warm liquids may feel more soothing to the throat, they are not necessarily better for hydration. Cold water is just as effective at keeping the vocal cords hydrated.
Singers can hydrate before a performance by drinking a lot of water all at once: This is a myth. It is better to drink water regularly throughout the day and especially before singing or performing to maintain hydration levels.

In conclusion, staying hydrated is crucial for singers to maintain vocal health and prevent vocal strain or injury. Drinking water regularly and avoiding dehydrating beverages are key to keeping the vocal cords hydrated. Avoid the myths and stick to the facts to ensure optimal hydration for singing.

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KSV&VS Blog

interesting debate...Breathing for singing vs. breathing for speaking

What are Semi occluded vocal tract exercises??

Performance anxiety

Singing for Well-Being: A Therapeutic and Joyful Experience

hydration Myths & facts

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