The best cooks are often those who are self-taught. They may have read a number of cooking books…they may have watched their mothers at work in the kitchen…and they may have even taken a cooking class…but, in the end, they’ve really taught themselves the art of cooking through concerted effort over the years. The same trend may be true when it comes to singing. Yes, you can take an online course—and you probably should—but, ultimately, it will be you who will teach yourself how to sing so that you will get noticed at audition time.
But how do actually teach yourself how to sing phenomenally well? The fact is, it all begins at home or in your rehearsal studio. You need to sing in a location where you’re comfortable and you aren’t afraid of making a mistake—even if that means singing in the shower starting out. You have to be able to project your voice without worrying about what the neighbors have to say about your efforts.
You may be tempted to count some of your performances as rehearsals—especially if they are at small venues—a cousin’s intimate wedding, a school-based concert, or a neighborhood talent competition. However, each of these is a legitimate event and should not count against your rehearsal time. In other words, performances aren’t the same thing as practices.
If you want to teach yourself how to sing effectively, you also need to allow yourself plenty of time. If you feel rushed during your rehearsal periods, chances are you will not be able to develop your voice. By taking a “go slow” approach, you will be doing yourself—and your voice—a huge favor. You cannot engage in “speed vocalizing” and expect to do well on the concert circuit. Good things take time—and that’s particularly true when you want to teach yourself how to sing.
When you go through your rehearsals, you should attempt to sing just a note or two above your customary range. That way, when it’s actually time for a performance, you’re less likely to go flat. You’ll be relaxed enough to sing with ease when that all-important showtime arrives.
When you attempt to hold a high note, make sure to allow your jaw to drop. That’s because you’re more likely to sustain the note that way. Engaging in relaxation exercises before each rehearsal and performance will also go a long way to reducing the kind of tension that typically leads to vocal strain.
Believe it or not, there are also a number of non-musical factors that can affect how well you sing. For instance, if you’re hungry or sleepy, it’s unlikely that you will perform up to par. Similarly, it’s entirely likely that you will become a better singer if you exercise regularly. Not only does exercise give your muscles a workout—it can also aid in your breathing technique, improve your stamina, and enhance your overall health—all of which can be beneficial when you’re attempting to polish your singing techniques.
