Another reality TV adolescent opera singer went viral recently, and the classical singing world reacted. But is the typical outrage, although certainly well informed and well intentioned, really the best way to respond? Perhaps seeing such excitement over opera singing, even if it doesn’t meet our educated standard, as an opportunity rather than an insult could benefit us all.
The thoughts you have about your own voice and singing abilities can greatly impact your ability to take direction, make changes, and have the voice you want. Learn to focus and direct your thoughts in positive ways that will lead to success.
Head voice. Chest voice. Mixed voice. Falsetto. Whistle voice. Pedagogues have delineated many vocal registers—and just as many theories for how to blend them. Keep it simple with this review of the basics of registration and some practical ways for personally addressing it in the practice room.
Don’t let yourself compensate for areas of weak vocal technique. Learn to identify areas of weakness and turn them into strengths.
With so many schools of thought around proper breathing for singing—from the Italian Bel Canto to the Germanic approach and everything in between—finding what works for you can be a challenge.
As a singer, your body is your instrument. So how do you best condition your body to make it the most optimal instrument it can be? Find out here.
Baritone Lucas Meachem didn’t take the traditional path to his successful opera career. He transferred schools three different times during his undergraduate years. He landed his first professional gig after tagging along with a friend to two YAP auditions. And he decided to accept a fellowship with a prestigious opera company rather than finish his degree. Now, with upcoming engagements around the world, Meachem says he has no regrets. He took the best opportunities available to him—and the opportunities keep coming.
“Raise the soft palate.” Every singer has heard this more than once. But where is the soft palate, and exactly how do you go about lifting it?
Part 1 of this column, which appeared in the May Issue, exposed the factors that give rise to tongue tension and the ways it can interfere with singing. Part 2
Ah, the tongue. So important for so many aspects of singing—and, yet, unnecessary tongue tension can cause significant problems for the singer. Learn more about how the tongue works and how it can impact your singing.
Do you want stronger abs but are concerned that it could negatively impact your singing? Find out if this is a legitimate concern and learn exercises that will strengthen your stomach muscles while still leaving the flexibility you need as a singer.
Assessing your physical, vocal, and mental readiness and then tailoring your warm-up to address weaknesses in those areas will help you be on your best game every time come audition time.
