The voice is connected to the heart, so singing brings a vulnerability to the singer that can sometimes be overwhelming. Often times when we are singing in front of others, we do some things that get in the way of our best, natural, free singing voice because, honestly, it is just pretty scary to let all of that emotion, sound, and (gasp!) maybe even a sound that is not up to our standards escape without somehow having control of the note before it hits the ears of our listener.
Have you ever noticed that when you sing you feel some restrictions in your throat, or you feel that you are pushing or straining to get the notes to do what you want them to do?
Do you seem to be sort of holding your breath as you push the phrases of your song? Do your shoulders tighten as you sing?
Do they rise up when you take in a breath in preparation for the next line in the song? Does it seem like a great effort to make it through a set of songs of even a full concert?
How many songs or how much of a single song can you sing without feeling vocally tired?
Do you find yourself listening to the note before you let it go because you want to be sure you are not going to embarrass yourself with a wrong pitch?
At the end of your phrases are your putting on the brakes instead of flowing through the whole line?
Perhaps you are doing that so that you can prepare for the next phrase?
If some of these things hit home with you, let me assure you that you are not alone! Believe me, we have all been in this boat at one time or another.
I have had the privilege of working with thousands of singers and can tell your from experience that most of these problems are common to us all. We make hard work out of singing, when actually it should be easy, fun, and effortless. The more we can let go and get out of our own way, the more we can express with beauty of sound.
It would be my honor to get to help you unlock the things that are holding you back and set you on your path to complete vocal freedom. Singing is fun!
To help you get started, try this relaxation exercise. It seems really silly, but if you will stick with it, you will start to notice some releases in the tension in your jaw and tongue. You will also notice your breath naturally moving to your belly.
Here it is:
Singing is such an amazing gift. I would love to help you find your best voice!
Have wonderful day and happy singing!
Suzanne
TheProSinger.com