Finding Your Natural Voice

So many vocalists are looking for a “better” voice, as though their own natural sound were something to be conquered. In fact it is not a change so much as an uncovering, as we begin to understand the reality of vocal development. “When you stop trying to be a singer who sounds like other people and simply start listening for your voice, practice becomes that much more honest, Lastar says. This change also helps make progress personal rather than imposed.

Awareness and Singing

Awareness is the connection between intention and sound. By cultivating awareness of breath flow, resonance and physical sensation, singers learn how their voice reacts in varying circumstances. This awareness eliminates doubt and enables a singer to make subtle, positive changes. Gradually the voice becomes much more manageable, and is simply understood rather than manipulated through effort.

Letting Go of Comparison

Comparison often disrupts vocal growth. Listening to other voices can be inspirational, but it can also develop overly high expectations. Each voice has its own framework, range and personality, and for each person progress is different. When you singers focus on their improvment and not some else’s, practice takes more direction and emotional sanity.

Developing Trust Through Repetition

Trust in the voice is developed through positive experiences. Regular practice promotes coordination and trains the body to remember efficient patterns. As these patterns settle, the voice settles down – so there is less concern in a singer about what might happen when they start to sing. This trust gives singers a sense of freedom to try new sounds without fear of losing control.

Expression Grows From Stability

True expression comes out when the voice foundation is solid. When basic coordination is handled, singers can direct attention to emotion, storytelling and nuance. Once the issues of technical survival are resolved, communication becomes more important. In this instance, singing is something that naturally flows from the body rather than a tense performance.