Student Guide on Preparing for Singing Lessons
How to Keep the Voice Box Healthy for Vocal Instruction
Aug 27, 2009
With proper care, the vocal cords will provide trouble free service when put under the extra demands of singing. There are various things the student can do in order to maximise his chances of achieving success with singing lessons.
What are the Vocal Cords?
Simply put, the voice box or larynx makes sounds via two folds of muscle known as the vocal cords or vocal folds, one resting on either side of the larynx. As air moves past them, the edges vibrate, producing sounds for speech or singing. A protective mucus membrane helps keep the vocal cords lubricated and immobilises dust and smoke.
False Vocal Cords, Bad Techniques and Practices when Singing
Two further cords lie above the vocal cords known as “false cords,” or “secondary cords.” Some people use these cords when singing and even in speech. This is bad technique and can cause vocal injury in the long term. A common problem is the formation of a swelling on one or both vocal cords in the form of nodules. The voice tutor may recommend corrective speech therapy before allowing the student to commence singing lessons. If another problem is suspected, for instance, polyps or cysts, a visit to the GP will be recommended.
Oversinging
Singing in loud venues or too close to sound systems may cause the singer to “oversing” in order to hear whether he is in tune. Oversinging also means belting out tunes and forcing the voice outside of normal range in an attempt to emulate Celine Dion or Whitney Houston. But according to Total Singing Tutor by Carrie and David Grant, [Carlton Books, 2003] this constant strain could cause fatigue of the vocal cords and even deterioration.
Getting the Most of the Singing Voice
Whilst the student is under instruction, the teacher must discourage the student from the following:
- Smoking
- Excess alcohol
- Lack of sleep
- Poor diet
- Stress
- poor technique such as oversinging
And encouraged to do the following:
- Practice in a well-ventilated room away from draughts, sudden temperature changes and air conditioning. A humidifier will keep the air well moistened, as dry air is not good for the vocal cords
- Drink plenty of fluids at room temperature and avoid fizzy or cold drinks
- Wear a scarf if it is cold outside
- Include plenty of fruit and vegetables in the diet and to cut down on acid-forming foods that can cause excess mucus, such as milk, chocolate and beef
- If the voice becomes phlegmy, adding a teaspoon of balsam oil into a bowl of hot water and inhaling the steam will help clear the airways
- Girl’s as well as boy’s voices break. During this transitional period, it is wise to keep singing
Improving Vocal Range
Before commencing each singing lesson, the tutor must encourage the student to practice warm ups to make the vocal cords supple. This involves gentle humming, followed by practicing the scales. The student must never try to sing out of range or to force the notes. Vocal range as well as stamina will progress gradually over time and with good practice.
Preparing for Singing Lessons
Prior to embarking singing lessons, the student must ensure the vocal cords are able to meet the demands by sticking to a sensible diet, avoid smoking, excess alcohol, stress and bad practices. By encouraging the student to take proper care of the voice box, such as using proper technique, appropriate warm ups and keeping the voice box warm, the singing lessons are likely to be fruitful.
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