Through my vocal tuition i have learned allot about correct posture and breathing for singers. I feel that my vocal technique has improved greatly since starting these lessons, i now have a greater understanding of how the voice works and am able to sing in a healthier way. As well as this, my vocal lessons have helped me to gain a better understanding of music theory and improved my abilities in sight reading. I am also now equipped with effective warm up techniques, and better methods of practice. My tutor was able to point out habits of mine that were often restricting my voice and effecting my posture. As these habits had become part of my muscle memory, it took allot of practice and patience, but i now can feel the effects of better support and a healthier method of singing. My tutor has also taught me about resonance, and with this i have been able to achieve a greater feeling of freedom when singing, as well as a better quality of sound. With the skills i have gained, i have been able to have more confidence in my abilities as a singer. I have become more disciplined in my practice routines, and have noticed the improvements in my voice. I feel that my tutors approach has been very helpful to me and to the process of my learning. I aim to continue building on what i have learned.
Correct posture is essential for singers as it is directly related to breathing and breath support, when aligned correctly the singer avoids creating tension that will restrict the breathing mechanism, rather than allowing it to be open and work effectively. Correct posture should be relaxed, but allow you to engage your whole body, and so optimize the use of your voice as an instrument. Use of correct posture is evident as it will help your diaphragm to work efficiently with ease. A singer should have awareness of the process involved in singing and of the connections being made within the body when one sings. When practicing good posture, the singer will be able to achieve better breath management as well as better vocal strength and stamina. Alignment of the body will provide support for the breathing system and allow the singer to improve projection whilst maintaining optimal sound.
Bad habits such as unnecessary movements of the head or tensing of the abdominal muscles become part of muscle memory when repeated over long periods of time. To alter the muscle memory, a singer must be very patient and disciplined, being aware in every movement and action to keep their posture in check, and repeating this process until it becomes natural for the body to do so. In order to make correct posture habitual one must be vigilant in keeping the body aligned, without exaggerated curves. Without good posture a singer impairs the ability to inhale and exhale smoothly. When slouched, the diaphragm is tight and the lungs are cramped, restricting the air intake, and inhibiting the ability to hit difficult notes and hold them for extended periods of time. A dedicated singer should be diligent in upholding a regular practice routine to improve and maintain good posture. Poor posture can have negative effects on the human body in many ways, but for singers especially, it is essential to practice good posture in order to achieve excellence. |