Everyone wants a better singing voice. Whether you’re a beginner asking “how do I even start singing?” or a seasoned performer looking to improve, this article is for you. We’ll cover 40 proven techniques to help you learn to sing properly.
Can Anyone Learn to Sing?
Singing is a skill, not just a talent. While some have natural aptitude, 97% of people can learn to sing in tune with practice. Even if you’ve been told you’re tone-deaf, don’t give up! With the right training and exercises, you can develop your voice.
“Sounding good” is subjective. Focus on developing your technique and finding your unique voice, rather than comparing yourself to others.
How to Sing Better: Posture and Breathing
Posture
- Tall Posture: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, shoulders aligned with hips and feet, chest lifted. Maintain a posture as if ready to jump.
- Chin Position: Keep your chin level, avoiding lifting it as you sing higher notes. Think “down” as you go up.
- Relax: Release tension in your throat, tongue, and jaw. A relaxed jaw allows for clear vowel articulation. Observe yourself in a mirror to identify tension.
Breathing
- Diaphragmatic Breathing: Breathe from your diaphragm, allowing your stomach to expand on the inhale and contract on the exhale. Avoid chest or shoulder breathing.
- Farinelli Breathing Exercise: Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts, exhale for 4 counts. Gradually increase the counts to build breath control.
- Scared Breath: Practice quick, silent inhales from the diaphragm, like a gasp without sound, for onstage breathing.
Ear Training and Vocal Warm-Ups
Ear Training
- Develop Pitch Recognition: Train your ear to recognize and reproduce notes accurately. Use tools like a piano or online resources. Cupping your ears can help you hear your own voice better.
- Learn an Instrument: Playing an instrument enhances musicality and strengthens ear training.
Warm-Ups
- Importance of Warming Up: Increase blood flow to vocal cords and clear mucus.
- Lip Trill: Gently blow air through closed lips, creating a buzzing sound. This exercise warms up your vocal cords without strain.
Vocal Tone and Registers
Tone
- Avoid Breathiness: Ensure vocal cords are not overly open. Speak phrases strongly, then “speak-sing” on pitch to build strength.
- Eliminate Nasality: Pinch your nose while singing to detect nasality. Direct sound forward through your mouth.
Registers
- Chest Voice: The lower register, producing a strong, powerful sound. Practice the 5-Tone Count exercise.
- Head Voice: The higher register, producing a lighter, breathier sound. Practice singing “Fee” on a descending octave scale.
- Mix Voice: Blend chest and head voice for a powerful yet controlled high range. Practice the “Gee” exercise on a scale.
- Bridging Vocal Breaks: Smooth the transition between registers to eliminate cracks. Practice the bratty “Nay” exercise.
Vocal Techniques and Exercises
- Practice Consistently: Aim for 30-60 minutes of daily practice.
- Don’t Strain: Avoid forcing your voice. If it hurts, stop.
- Singing Higher: Utilize techniques like the “Cry” sound to add pressure without straining.
- Intervals: Learn to sing common musical intervals (e.g., major second, perfect fifth) using solfege.
- Scales: Practice major and minor scales to develop vocal agility and ear training.
- Staccato: Sing notes with a sharp, detached attack. This helps build strength and control.
- Legato: Sing notes smoothly and connected. Focus on vowel emphasis.
- Vowels: Experiment with different vowels to find those that resonate best with your voice. “Ee”, “Ae”, “Oh”, and “Uh” each have unique benefits.
- Larynx Position: Maintain a neutral larynx position to avoid a strained or squeezed sound. Practice the “Dopey” sound.
Performance and Artistry
- Practice with a Microphone: Learn proper microphone technique, maintaining a 1-1.5 inch distance.
- Vibrato: Develop vibrato, a slight variation in pitch, to add richness to your voice. Practice the Diaphragm Pulse exercise.
- Song Choice: Select songs that suit your vocal range, style, and personality.
- Performance Experience: Join a choir or band to gain experience and confidence.
- Find Your Style: Develop your unique vocal identity. The “Mum” exercise can help you discover your natural voice. Listen to great singers for inspiration.
- Learn Lyrics: Memorize lyrics thoroughly to focus on performance and emotional delivery.
- Be Patient: Progress takes time and dedicated effort.
Singing better is a journey. Embrace the process, be consistent with your practice, and enjoy the rewards of a stronger, more expressive voice!
