The preparation for great singing is the breath. How we breath along with the things we physiologically allows to happen before singing can greatly affect the voice's performance. In order to learn how to sing correctly, we must explore the art of breathing to sing. This includes deep breathing, breath support, and breath control.
Let's first explore the purpose of studying the breath. The overall goal is for breathing to be a moment of relaxation, and rejuvenation. It is a way of refueling the body and allowing the body to give itself its second wind. Too often, though, singers find themselves gasping for air and so tensed up that they are soon fatigued and unable to sing to the end of a phrase. This can be frustrating, disheartening and discouraging. the good news is one can be trained to sing in a way that will rejuvenate and refresh their body. Its kind of like how a jogger finds their rhythm and can run for five miles without needing to catch their breath. Here are a few ways to maximize breathing while singing.
1. Breathe deeply each time. Focus on expanding your lower abdomen. Relax the shoulders and neck. These all work together inversely. The more tense your neck and shoulders are, the less deep your breaths will be and vice versa. A good way to practice this is by gently swaying back and forth allowing your head to 'bob' from side to side while breathing in through your nose. This helps to relax the body and the effort to draw in air is focused on the diaphragm.
2. Imagine yourself trying to stay full of air while you sing. This is great because so many people undoubtedly feel the need to 'empty' the air while they sing. If one imagines themselves trying to keep the air in while they are singing, their phrases and tone quality will improve because they will now be more in control of the flow of air due to downward pressure.Some envision this as a bowl movement feeling. If you think of your abdomen being pushed 'out- and - down' as you sing, you will find yourself with much more breath control.
3. When you are running out of air, do not collapse your chest or tense up. Keep your ribcage high to maximize air flow.
Good breath control enhances your singing in so many ways. It improves posture, tone quality, phrasing, and makes it easier to find the correct voice placements. This leads to a good vibrato which leads to vocal runs and melismas. Just remember that they all work together. Don't expect to master the breath in one day, but instead take time to lay a good foundation for a lifetime of good singing!
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