How to Distinguish Between Straining and Training Your Voice

Understanding the difference between straining and training your voice is crucial for maintaining vocal health and achieving consistent, enjoyable performances. When you strain your voice, you are putting undue stress on it, leading to temporary or even long-term damage. On the other hand, training your voice can improve its capacity, making it more efficient and enjoyable to use. This article will guide you through these concepts, offering tips and advice to help you recognize the signs and take appropriate actions.

Signs of Straining vs. Training Your Voice

Straining causes wear on your voice, so you have to wait for it to recover. Training, however, builds up your vocal capacity and allows you to perform better without straining. When you train your voice, you can perform more comfortably and feel good afterwards. Here are some key differences between the two:

Straining: You may feel pain, especially when trying to hit higher notes or extending your range. Quick fatigue is also a common symptom. If you're feeling strain, it's an indication that you might be pushing your voice beyond its limits. Training: When you train your voice properly, you should feel a sense of ease and strength without significant fatigue. This is a sign that your voice is adapting and improving its capacity.

It's important to note that you need feedback from someone who can observe your technique to ensure that you're not doing anything that could cause long-term harm to your voice.

Examples of Strain in Voice Training

When you're expanding your vocal range, there can be a fine line between training and straining. Here are some scenarios to help you understand the difference:

Scenario 1: Ascending Scales

For example, if you're practicing ascending scales from C to F, you might feel a slight strain, but it's unlikely to be excessive. However, if you're ascending from C to Bb, you may find yourself firmly in strain territory. This high note can put a lot of pressure on your vocal cords, making the exercise unproductive.

Scenario 2: Incorrect Posture

Another way to strain your voice is by not using proper form. For instance, failing to raise your tongue during high notes can place unnecessary stress on your vocal apparatus. Venturing into these techniques without the benefit of a proper teacher can lead to physical discomfort or even vocal damage.

For example, when I was in high school, I was trained in proper posture and alignment, but if I sang for long periods without proper hydration, I would often experience a dry gag. This was partly because I didn't pace myself and primarily because I relied on caffeine instead of water, which dried out my voice.

What to Do When You Feel Strain

If you experience pain or significant fatigue during a vocal exercise, the first step is to rest your voice. Allow it to recover before returning to practice. It's important to recognize the signs that indicate strain and address them promptly to avoid long-term damage.

A singer should be able to practice comfortably for about an hour without experiencing discomfort. If discomfort appears before an hour, it's time to reassess your technique. A good teacher with academic credentials can help you build a vocal technique that serves you well, so until you can find such a teacher, start with the tips below.

A Simple Guide to Voice Culture: The ABCs of Singing

Understanding the basics of voice culture can significantly improve your singing technique. Here are some key principles to consider:

A is for Alignment

Alignment is foundational for voice control. Stand with feet a few cm apart, not exactly parallel, with weight slightly forward on the balls of your feet. Feel the energy in your feet and legs, and keep your knees flexible. Raise your hands high above your head and let them rest easily at your sides. Keep your back straight, imagining a silver thread from the base of your spine to the top of your head, allowing your body to float.

Allow the ribs to expand like an opening umbrella, remaining flexible and dynamic. Whenever you practice, refresh your alignment and posture. Proper alignment will help you project your voice more effectively and maintain control.

B is for Breathing

Proper breathing is crucial for voice control. Try the straw exercise: inhale through puckered lips and exhale by hissing loudly from the abdominal area. Maintain this alignment as you exhale. As you sing, breathe low in the body and imagine a tire inner tube filled with air, leaning into it. Always think "up."

C is for Coordination

As you go higher, let your voice get lighter and brighter, reducing pressure. However, slightly increase the breath energy and expand your posture to make the sound higher or louder. Practice repeating one note, sustaining it and varying the volume, progressing to higher notes and different vowels.

To truly improve your singing voice, consider working with a teacher who has academic credentials in voice teaching. This will help you refine your technique and build a more resilient, efficient vocal mechanism.

Remember, vocal health is paramount, and with the right training and care, you can enjoy a long and rewarding singing career. Keep these principles in mind, and always prioritize your vocal health over pushing yourself beyond your limits.