by bo mackison
So we think we know how to sing, right? Just open our mouths, let sounds come out, and we’re clearly singing like the best of them. Surprisingly, singing is much more complex than the seemingly effortless performances we see on stage by superstars. What we need to understand is that there’s a wrong way and an optimal way to sing.
Whether you dream of becoming a professional singer or simply love singing for fun, you’d want a powerful and lasting voice. Yet many people struggle to develop their singing voice. Common issues include weak or strained voices, difficulty controlling pitch, insufficient volume, limited breath support, and struggling to hit high notes. These challenges often stem from physical health, diet, proper breathing techniques, and using the right practice methods. All of this can make the difference between appearing on MTV and staying at the karaoke bar.
If you want to be a serious singer, whether professional or amateur, you need some education on how to sing. Just like nurses and accountants need to go to school for their professions, aspiring singers need instruction. You can either find a local teacher and take lessons or consider high-quality singing lessons available online. Regardless of the method you choose, you must learn how the vocal mechanism works, how to use it properly, and how to address or avoid voice issues. With the right teacher or program, learning to sing can be fun and engaging.
Warming up is crucial in singing. Whether you’re just learning how to sing or are practicing regularly, it’s important to warm up your voice, as it is a vital tool. One essential tip when starting is to relax, which helps reduce the physical tension in your body that affects your singing voice. Breathing exercises are also important, as they help you develop the proper breathing technique when singing and enable you to sustain longer and louder notes.
Determine your vocal range, as this will not only help you produce the right sounds but also prevent you from damaging your voice by straining to reach high notes. Once you’ve mastered the basics of singing, you can work on expanding your range.
Find a private space to practice and commit to practicing regularly. Start by singing along with a professional track and recording your voice. Enlist the help of a friend or someone who can give you honest feedback to determine if you’re singing in tune. This will help you refine and improve your singing. Pay attention to whether you’re hitting the right key, breathing properly without gasping, and maintaining a strong singing voice.
Develop your singing style. If you’re unsure of which style suits you, try various styles to help you determine what fits your voice and what you’re most comfortable with. Sing with others as well, which can not only encourage you to perform better but also allow you to learn from other singers about essential singing techniques and tips.
Keep practicing, as the key to learning how to sing and improving lies in consistent practice. If you’re aiming to take your singing to the stage, work on honing your performance skills. Practice in front of a mirror and build your confidence by performing for small audiences.
Learning to sing is fun and can be a rewarding experience. However, remember that it’s also essential to protect your singing voice. Avoid things that can harm your voice, such as cigarettes and alcohol, to maintain the quality of your singing.
Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME