Let’s talk about breathing.
In my opinion, the most misunderstood and neglected topic of so many singers.
LESS IS MORE!
The only difference between “speaking” or “singing a note” is Airflow.
The sooner we understand that, the better. Speak a sentence like “Hi, how are you?” How easy and relaxed is that? NOW, Speak and drag out the same sentence like Hiiiiiii, HOOOOW ARRRRRE Yaouoooooo,
That is exactly what happens when we sing, we elongate the notes and air flow.
Simple, relaxed and easy!
The way we breathe in, determines the sound we are about to make.
#Don’t breathe as if it is your last breath. Breathe as if you are going to speak!
Now, always just concentrate on the sound you are going to make (The note you are going to sing)
Taking to much air at the front of a note OR locking up all the muscles and hanging on to the diaphragm is only going to make matters worse.
The job of our diaphragm and the ONLY job of our diaphragm is to get out of the way and flatten out so that the lungs can expand and drop into that cavity, (Exactly like when we are sleeping!)
Simply put, breathe in and out in a relaxed, calm fashion.
EXERCISE
SIT ON A CHAIR…. LEAN FORWARD…ELBOWS ON KNEES
BREATHE IN AND OUT.
FEEL HOW THE LUNGS ARE FILLING UP INTO THAT DEEPER CAVITY (DIAPHRAGM)
NOW, JUST KEEP BREATHING IN AND OUT IN THAT POSITION AND STAYING IN THAT POSITION, PUT ONE HAND ON YOUR SIDE AND FEEL HOW THE RIB CAGE EXPANDS AND CONTRACTS AS YOU BREATHE.
This is what you are looking to do once you are standing upright.. Head and eyes straight ahead, shoulders relaxed, feet apart in line with your shoulders and SIMPLY.. Breathe IN and Breathe OUT etc etc
Remember your brain starts it all, by telling the lungs “This person is going to diaphragm breathe” let your body do the rest. It does not need any help from you!!
Till next time
Happy singing
Marion Rouvas
Director/Vocal Coach
Voiceology Australia
www.voiceology.com.au
