Improving Your Singing Voice: Tips and Advice from a Professional Vocal Teacher

Are you passionate about singing but unsure how to improve your skills? Have you recently auditioned for The Little Mermaid and now seek advice on how to elevate your performance? If so, this article is for you. Drawing from the insights of professional voice teachers and retired opera singers, we'll delve into specific tips to help you refine your singing technique and enhance your vocal performance.

Personalized Advice from Experts

Your audition for The Little Mermaid has been evaluated by several colleagues who are also professional voice teachers and retired opera singers. They have provided valuable feedback that can help you improve your singing voice and make informed decisions about your future in the performing arts.

Vocal Timbre and Range

Your colleagues described your voice as reminiscent of a soubrette soprano—a high, light soprano voice. While it is true that you may need to work on your lower notes, they believe that your voice possesses a sweetness and potential that deserves exploration. This expert evaluation suggests that you have more to offer and should consider professional voice training to fully unlock your abilities.

It is important to avoid being labeled with a specific voice part based solely on your range. Many aspiring singers incorrectly assume they know what voice part they are based on their range, neglecting the complexity and beauty of the human voice.

Healthy Vocal Technique and Range

Developing a healthy vocal technique is crucial. According to your colleagues, the beauty and longevity of your voice are determined by where the most beauty can be produced over the longest period without fatigue. This is not a fixed label but a dynamic quality that evolves with practice and instruction.

To guide you in finding the appropriate range and style of music, your colleagues recommend singing lessons. They emphasize that a strong motivation to improve and a willingness to listen to constructive feedback are essential for realizing your artistic potential.

Professional Pursuit or Hobby?

Your colleagues also addressed the broader question of whether you should pursue a professional career in singing. They advise you to search your soul and determine if there is any other profession that could provide the same level of fulfillment as a singing career. If the answer is yes, they recommend making it a hobby and pursuing a more stable profession.

However, if you feel that singing is essential for your happiness and well-being, you should continue to pursue it. The performing arts are highly competitive, and success requires a significant drive, optimism, and a measure of luck. Taking voice lessons and incorporating specialized techniques can significantly enhance your chances of success.

Practical Steps to Improve Your Voice

The following practical steps can help you start your journey towards improvement:

Listen to Your Performing Art: Listen to the audition you recorded for The Little Mermaid and closely follow along with the words and melody to get a better understanding of your strengths and areas for improvement. Hum with an NG Sound: Hum the NG sound throughout the song to strengthen your middle voice. This technique helps prepare your voice for singing in a more comfortable and resonant manner. Practicing with Accompaniment: If possible, find a pianist to record the accompaniment for the song so you can practice singing along. This helps you become more familiar with the piece and refine your performance. Stay Hydrated: Consume plenty of water to keep your vocal folds healthy. Aim for 80 to 90 ounces of water daily, unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider. Get Adequate Rest: Ensure you get sufficient sleep to allow your body to recover and heal.

By following these steps and seeking guidance from professional vocal teachers, you can continue to refine your singing voice and pursue your passion with confidence.

May your journey towards becoming a better singer be filled with joy and success! Happy holidays, and all the best!