10 Tips for Getting the Most From Vocal Warm-ups

10 Tips for Getting the Most From Vocal Warm-ups

1. Warm-ups vary. While there may be certain vocal warm-ups that work for just about any singer, this is certainly not the case for all warm-ups. Also, another thing to consider is the way each warm-up is sung. This is a highly important consideration to maintaining good vocal health.
2. Repetition is key. I have decided to share some of the warm-ups my own students use. Keep in mind the importance of discipline. Repetition is the mother of learning. So sing through vocal exercises several times each day.
3. Avoid certain food and drinks. Do not sabotage your singing by consuming dairy products, caffeine, or ice cold water, or drinks.
4. Posture is crucial. Be sure to warm up your body before doing vocal warm-ups. The entire body is your vocal instrument and it must be free of all tension, particularly in the shoulder, face and tongue areas. Watch your posture and stand up straight with the body weight balanced on the balls of the feet (not the heels). This will help in keeping the spine straight.
5. The neck is a critical area. The neck is a critical area for singers. It houses the spinal cord, nerves, blood vessels, and our vocal mechanism. Also, the neck supports our head, which weighs an average of 20 pounds.
6. Hang arms loosely. I am often asked, “What do I do with my arms?” My answer is to simply allow them to hang loosely at your sides with your fingertips lightly touching your upper thighs. Remember that when it comes to your arms, less is more.
7. Sit properly. We don’t always stand when we sing so it’s important to know how to sit properly. Sit in such a way that your back is supporting you. When singing in a choir, switch your position from one posture to another every 10-15 minutes. This will keep your back from becoming fatigued.
8. Tighten your buns. Another tip that has worked well for me is to tighten your buns when standing. This will strengthen your abs and the lower back muscles.
9. Planted feet and unlocked knees. Your feet should be planted on the floor about shoulder’s width apart and the knees unlocked (slightly bent).
10. Breathe and drink water. Always use diaphragmatic breathing and sip on room temperature water during singing.

Related Topics

Vocal Warm-Up 1: Five Note Ascending

Vocal Warm-Up 2: Arpeggios

Vocal Warm-Up 3: Breath Support and Tone Quality

Humming

Vocal Sirens

Lip Rolls & Tongue Trills

10 Tips for Getting the Most From Vocal Warm-ups

Elizabeth Farrell Music2021-07-24T19:45:40+00:00