How to Take Care of Your Voice Before a Performance

Have you ever had that one perfect performance where your voice feels effortless, only to find that the next time, something felt “off?” Those magical moments are what singers live for, but they can be frustratingly hard to repeat. The voice can be a fickle instrument because it is part of your body, and countless factors influence how it functions. Being sick, stressed, distracted, or in pain can all affect your sound, and it’s not uncommon to find that your voice feels “off” for no obvious reason.

Singing consistently well, whether at competitions, recitals, or staged productions is a challenge that every singer faces day after day. In this article, we’ll share some practical strategies to help you take care of your voice before a performance – so you can find that effortless sound more often, and with greater consistency.  

Stay Hydrated

Did you know that when you are well hydrated, your vocal cords are coated with a thin layer of mucus? This mucosal layer provides lubrication, allowing your vocal cords to vibrate freely and efficiently. When you are dehydrated, however, that layer becomes thicker and patchier. This not only creates general discomfort, but it also adds a sense of heaviness and makes it harder to move smoothly from note to note. 

To keep your vocal cords in optimal condition, be sure to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your performance. The day before is especially important, since the body’s hydration cycle takes about 24 hours. 

Eat Healthy foods

Certain foods can create a noticeable impact on your voice. Dairy products may contribute to thicker mucus and increased phlegm. Spicy, acidic, greasy, and fatty foods can trigger acid reflux, which irritates the vocal cords. Other items, such as salty foods and caffeine, can act as diuretics, making the body become dehydrated more quickly. Alcohol also contributes to dehydration.

That said, every person is different, and foods don’t affect everyone in the same way. For instance, some people find that milk significantly affects their voice, while others notice no change at all. The key is to pay attention to your body. Notice which foods keep your voice feeling free and clear, and which ones weigh it down. Once you know, you can make mindful decisions to support your best sound. 

Get Plenty of Sleep

The muscles in your body need enough time during sleep to repair and recover from the stress of daily use, and your voice is no different. The vocal folds are controlled by muscles in the larynx, which function best when well-rested. Adequate sleep helps keep them flexible and resilient, while lack of sleep can make them stiff, irritated, and more prone to injury. Sleep also supports overall hydration. Without enough rest, excess mucus can build up on the vocal folds, making them harder to control. 

Prioritize getting consistent, sufficient sleep, especially in the weeks leading up to a big performance. Rest will not only protect your voice, but also boost your confidence and overall well-being as a singer. 

Manage Stress Levels

When you’re stressed, your body responds in ways that will directly affect your voice. Muscles throughout the body, including those in the larynx, tend to tighten. Breathing can become shallow, making it harder to take in enough air and maintain good breath control. Over time, chronic stress may also weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of illness and fatigue. All of this can keep your voice from feeling its best.

To manage stress, focus on practices that support both your body and your mind: mindfulness, meditation, adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and healthy relationships. If you need additional support, working with a therapist can also be a powerful tool for managing stress and protecting your vocal health.

Conclusion

We hope these tips help you find greater consistency in your singing! Remember that you are human, and doing your best is always enough. Your voice will naturally fluctuate from day to day, and that’s completely normal. The goal isn’t perfection, but rather cultivating steadiness while giving your body the grace and space it needs. Happy singing!