Common Problems
When children learn to read, they usually begin by reading out loud before moving on to reading silently. In the transition period, they may read to themselves but their lips still form the words as they read. After a while they progress to simply reading without moving their lips. This is a useful analogy for the process involved in learning to sing.
Beginning singers instinctively move their larynx higher when singing high notes and lower when singing low notes. However, this creates tension in the throat and actually restricts the free flow of sound required for a good singing tone. When you move your larynx up or down, you are using the muscles outside the larynx instead of the vocal cords.
Be aware that you will achieve a better sound by keeping your larynx stable and relaxed as you sing. Let the air and the vocal cords make the sound. Imagine the sound of the note you wish to sing and trust your body to make that sound. If it can’t, the answer is patience. A beginning pianist cannot be a virtuoso in three weeks and neither can a singer.
Another common problem (again related to moving the lips when reading) is head movement when reaching for high or low notes. For the best sound, keep your head in the same position as you would when speaking to someone the same height as yourself. This allows the most open and relaxed pathway for your voice.
Incorrect
reaching for high notes
Incorrect
reaching for low notes
Correct
speech position
A third common problem which interferes with good tone is tension, particularly in the jaw. Before you sing, it is a good idea to tense your body and then let it relax. First try this with the whole body and then do it with specific areas like the shoulders, chest, throat, tongue, jaw, and face muscles.
