Effective Breathing for Singing: Techniques You Might Not Have Heard Of!
When it comes to singing, the importance of proper breathing cannot be overstated. It can make all the difference in the quality of your voice and your overall performance. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key aspects of effective breathing for singing and debunk some common myths along the way.
Table of Contents
Myth: Breathe from your stomach
One prevailing myth suggests that breathing for singing should originate from the stomach. In truth, the diaphragm is the main breathing muscle for singers. Regardless of the breathing technique used, the diaphragm is always engaged. While there are other muscles involved in inhalation, the diaphragm takes center stage.
Practicing Breathing from a Closed System
Another crucial aspect of effective breathing for singing is practicing within a closed system rather than an open one. Research has shown that exercises focused solely on open breathing, such as belly breathing without vocal involvement, do not significantly improve vocal performance. Singing requires the coordination of opening and closing the vocal cords, making it a closed system. Integrating breathing exercises with vocal production is key to enhancing your voice.
Breathing Exercises for Overall Resilience
While some breathing exercises are not directly related to singing, they can still be beneficial. These exercises aim to increase your tolerance to CO2, enhance overall resilience, and alleviate stage anxiety. Techniques like breath-holding exercises, combined with arm movements, indirectly improve your performance by improving breath control and overall stage presence.
Mouth Breathing vs. Nose Breathing
The debate between mouth breathing and nose breathing for singing has raged on. When performing on stage or singing a song, there’s often limited time between phrases, making quick inhalation necessary. Breathing through the nose, although generally healthier, can be slower and may disrupt the smooth flow of singing. Training your mouth breathing is essential to keep the vocal tract open and avoid clicks or obstructions.
Using Actually Effective Breathing Techniques for Singing
In summary, effective breathing techniques are crucial for singers looking to optimize their performance. Remember, while nose breathing may be healthier overall, training your mouth breathing is essential for singing.
Exciting News: Online Group Class for Adults
If you’re passionate about singing and eager to enhance your skills, I have an exciting announcement for you. I’m launching a brand-new online group class exclusively for adults. Designed to accommodate different schedules, the class offers both live sessions and weekly recordings for those unable to attend in real-time. Although the class is not yet open, early-bird discounts are available for those who sign up early.
To take advantage of this opportunity, simply email me for further details and secure your spot. Visit my website for additional information on the multiple group classes I offer, tailored to different skill levels.
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I help people to develop their voice and singing from a holistic approach. I teach vocal lessons in person in Auckland, NZ, and online. Also stay tuned for my new online singing programs!❤️
My greatest passion has always been the voice, music and energy arts.
My personal and artistic journey has led me to understand that the voice and the body are fully connected, and that includes not only the physical body but also the mental, emotional and spiritual body.
Through holistic vocal training you not only learn to become a great singer while taking care of your voice, but you also improve your mental and physical wellbeing❤️
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