My Top 10 Tips for Beginner Vocalists
Every singer starts out as a beginner. Even if you are born with an innately amazing voice, you will still need some guidance in how to care for your voice, prepare it, and train it. No performer can go from singing in the car to a packed stadium without hard work and guidance!
I have put together a list of 10 tips that have helped me when I was starting out with singing. I hope it motivates you to take the next step in your dream!
1. Stay dedicated
The fact that you are reading this blog already shows you want to sing better. And that is the very first step towards improving your voice. You cannot become a better singer without taking action.
Believe that you can and put in the effort. When you’re dedicated, it makes a BIG difference!
2. Warm-up
Establish a warm-up routine. Every athlete stretches and warms up before any type of practice or game. Singing should be no different.
Your voice is just as important as any other body part and you should take care of it. Anytime you are about to practice or perform make sure to warm-up first.
3. Listen and learn from your favorite singers
There is nothing easier than learning for free from your favorite artists!
As a beginner, it is important to be open to all genres. Ultimately you will want to sing in a style that best suits your voice, but you may be surprised that listening to other genres and artists you may have picked up some techniques and voice qualities that can make you a more well-rounded singer and a better performer.
4. Record yourself
Recording yourself is a great learning tool and resource. You may be surprised when you hear your voice on playback for the first time that it may be completely different than what you thought you sounded like.
As you start recording and listening to yourself, you can catch any places you can improve. I like to record and listen to my voice as it helps me to identify my problem areas and it forces me to become a better listener, which ultimately helps me have a good, trained ear.
5. Stay hydrated
Drinking water and staying hydrated allows all parts of your body to work at its maximum potential, but especially your vocal cords and tongue as it will help bring vibration and modulation to your voice.
Remember to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day! Water is important not just before you sing, it can take up to 14 hours to rehydrate your vocal folds. I know, I was surprised too!
6. Watch what you eat
Just like water, as a singer what you eat is important too. Certain foods can irritate your throat and vocal cords, so you may need to watch what you eat or avoid certain foods before a performance.
I’ve heard of some celebrity singers who shy away from dairy, salty foods, and spicy foods as they can harm the vocal folds. These foods are known to create mucus, which makes you have to clear your throat, further agitating your vocal folds.
You should also watch when you eat. When your stomach is full it can stop the diaphragm from moving down making it more difficult to breathe deeply as you sing. I try not to eat 2 hours before a big performance to combat this problem. If you do need to eat, especially before practicing, make your meal light.
7. Get a coach
It is important to have a strong foundation. Consulting with a qualified vocal coach or instructor can help you find your voice and make the most of your natural abilities.
Whether you meet with someone in-person or online, a good vocal teacher can transform your singing through teaching proper warm-ups, endurance, and breathing techniques.
8. Be confident
You’re already willing to take the first steps towards becoming a better vocalist, but now you need to have confidence! Remember, no two voices are alike. Learn to respect your voice and embrace your individuality. No one will appreciate your voice if you don’t.
Stay tuned for more tips and check out my other blogs to learn more about my music as well as my books, acting, writing tips & tricks, and much more! You can also follow me on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram to hear my singles, Two Times, TA$TE IT, and newly released Not Perfect.
Until next time,
Katrina