Breathing is something we do naturally, without even thinking about it. But did you know that the way you breathe can have a significant impact on your singing?
Whether you’re an aspiring vocalist or just looking to improve your overall lung capacity, learning proper breathing techniques is essential. Let’s take a look at some of the best breathing tips for beginners, with a focus on breathing exercises for singing!
Breathing Exercises For Singing
When we think of singing, our minds often conjure images of soaring melodies, powerful high notes, and the ability to captivate an audience with your voice. While these aspects are undoubtedly crucial, there’s a hidden hero behind every great singer – breath control.
Singing isn’t just about hitting the right notes; it’s about how you sustain those notes and master the art of breath control. This is where breathing exercises come into play, serving as the cornerstone of vocal mastery and an important part of any course of singing lessons.
The Importance of Breathing Exercises In Singing
When you sing, your vocal cords vibrate to produce sound. To maintain a steady and pleasing tone, you need a consistent flow of air. This is where proper breathing techniques come into play. Here are some key benefits of incorporating breathing exercises into your singing practice:
Increased Lung Capacity: Breathing exercises help expand your lung capacity, allowing you to take in more air. This extra air can be a game-changer, especially during long phrases or high notes.
Improved Breath Control: Controlling the flow of your breath is essential for singing. Breathing exercises teach you how to manage your exhalation, so you don’t run out of breath mid-song.
Enhanced Vocal Stamina: As any singing coach can tell you, with better breath control, you can sing for longer periods without feeling fatigued. This is especially useful during live performances or extended studio sessions.
Better Pitch Control: When you have control over your breath, it becomes easier to maintain pitch accuracy. Your singing will sound more consistent and on-key.
How To Do Breathing Exercises For Singing
Now that you understand why breathing exercises are vital, let’s explore some practical exercises that will help you develop your breath control and lung capacity:
Diaphragmatic Breathing: Start by placing one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your abdomen to expand while keeping your chest still. Exhale slowly through pursed lips. Repeat this exercise to strengthen your diaphragm and increase your lung capacity.
Sustained Notes: Choose a comfortable note and sing it for as long as possible on a single breath. Focus on maintaining a steady tone without wavering. As you progress, try this exercise on different notes and increase the duration.
Breath Support with Resistance: Use a straw or a drinking straw-like device to inhale and exhale while singing. The resistance created by the straw will force you to control your breath more effectively.
Lip Trills: Create a buzzing sound by blowing air through your closed lips. Sing a scale or a simple melody while doing this. Lip trills help in controlling airflow and developing breath support.
How To Not Run Out Of Breath While Singing
Running out of breath while singing can be frustrating, especially if you’re just starting to practice singing. With the right techniques, however, you can overcome this challenge. Here’s how:
Practice Breath Awareness: Pay attention to your breath during singing. Notice when you tend to run out of breath and work on those specific phrases or sections.
Phrasing: Divide your song into manageable phrases where you can take quick breaths. Plan your breaths strategically between phrases to ensure a continuous flow.
Control Exhalation: Avoid exhaling too quickly. Consciously release air at a steady rate to make the most of each breath.
Relaxation: Tension can lead to faster breath depletion. Keep your body relaxed, especially your shoulders and neck, to conserve energy.
Regular Exercise: Engage in cardiovascular exercises like jogging or swimming to improve your overall lung capacity and stamina.
Remember, to be patient with yourself as you practice these breathing exercises and techniques. Consistency is key, so make breathing exercises a regular part of your singing routine.
By incorporating breathing exercises into your practice routine and learning to control your breath effectively, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a more confident and capable singer. So, take a deep breath and use these tips to let your singing voice soar!