Whether you’re looking to hone your vocal technique, improve your pitching, or delve into the intricacies of resonance and tone, you’ve landed in the right place.
Our exhaustive guide is packed with 50 essential singing tips to teach you how to sing better, master the art of vocal control, and unlock your true vocal potential.
From foundational breath control and posture to advanced singing techniques and emotional engagement, we cover it all.
So, if you’re wondering how to get better at singing, dive in and get ready to take your vocal abilities to the next level.
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The Basics: Foundational Techniques
Before you can belt out power ballads or master intricate runs, it’s essential to have a strong foundation. This section dives into the elemental aspects of singing that are often overlooked but are critical for anyone learning how to sing properly. We’ll cover breath control, posture, and other fundamental singing techniques that form the bedrock of vocal excellence. These are the building blocks that will pave the way for you to become a better singer, providing the groundwork for more advanced skills down the line.
1 Master Your Breathing
Before you can hold those long, soaring notes or tackle complex melodies, you need to get your breathing right. Mastering diaphragmatic breathing is crucial to enhancing your vocal power and sustaining your voice. This technique involves breathing deeply from the diaphragm rather than shallowly from the chest, allowing you to take in more air and, in turn, produce a more robust and controlled sound. In essence, learning how to breathe correctly is the first step in your journey on how to become a good singer.
2 Perfect Your Posture
Maintaining the correct posture is more than just standing up straight; it’s about aligning your body in a way that optimises airflow and vocal projection. A poor posture can restrict your diaphragm and limit your breathing, causing strain and affecting the quality of your voice. Whether you’re standing or sitting, aim for a relaxed but upright posture. Keep your shoulders rolled back and down, and your chest open. This will free up your diaphragm, allowing for better breath control and, ultimately, a more powerful and clearer voice.
3 Open Your Mouth Wider
It might seem like a small detail, but the width of your mouth opening can significantly affect the sound you produce. A wider mouth opening can help you achieve a fuller, richer tone and make it easier to hit those high notes. It can also improve your diction and the clarity of your words. While it’s important not to overextend your jaw, a generous but comfortable mouth opening allows for better resonance and can enhance the overall quality of your singing.
4 Know Your Range
One of the quickest ways to improve your singing is to understand your vocal range. Knowing the lowest and highest notes you can comfortably hit will guide you in choosing songs and keys that suit your voice. Attempting to sing out of your natural range can lead to vocal strain and may not showcase your voice at its best. By understanding your vocal range, you can focus on songs and techniques that highlight your strengths while gradually working on expanding your limits.
Vocal Warm-Up Tips
Before hitting those high notes or diving into intricate melodies, a proper vocal warm-up is crucial. This section offers a curated selection of practical warm-up exercises designed to prepare your voice for the rigours of singing. From gentle humming to full-on vocal sirens, these tips will guide you through a comprehensive routine that enhances vocal clarity, range, and stamina. Set aside just 10 to 15 minutes before your next practice or performance, and experience the difference a well-executed warm-up can make.
5 Warm Up Properly
Skipping a vocal warm-up is a risk you don’t want to take. Warming up properly prepares your vocal cords for the strenuous activity of singing, helping to prevent strain and injury. A good warm-up includes a mix of breathing exercises, scales, and gentle humming to gradually bring your voice to its optimal performance level. Spending just 10 to 15 minutes on a thorough warm-up can make a noticeable difference in your vocal clarity, range, and stamina.
6 Hum to Warm-Up
Humming is a simple yet effective way to initiate your vocal warm-up. It activates the vocal cords without putting too much stress on them, making it a safe starting point for your routine. To start humming, keep your lips relaxed and closed, then produce a soft, continuous sound. You can experiment with different pitches, but aim to stay within your comfortable vocal range.
As you hum, focus on sending the resonance towards the front of your face, almost as if you’re directing the sound out through your forehead. This helps in activating the facial resonators, which will contribute to a fuller, richer tone when you sing. Humming for a few minutes can prepare your voice for more complex vocal exercises and singing tasks ahead.
7 Use Lip Trills
Lip trills are an effective and fun way to warm up your voice. They help in loosening the lips and engaging the diaphragm, facilitating better control over your breath. To perform a lip trill, simply blow air through your closed lips, making them vibrate or “trill.” You can also glide up and down your vocal range while trilling to further warm up your vocal cords. This exercise is not only good for warming up but also for improving your breath control and pitch.
8 Practise Sirens for Range
The siren exercise is a fantastic way to engage your entire vocal range, from the lowest to the highest notes you can comfortably reach. This exercise not only warms up your voice but also improves your vocal flexibility. To do a siren, take a deep breath and sing a continuous, sliding note that ascends from your lowest pitch to your highest, and then back down again, mimicking the sound of a siren.
The key is to keep the sound smooth, avoiding any breaks or abrupt changes in pitch. This will help you identify any ‘cracks’ in your range where your voice might transition between different vocal registers. Performing sirens at the start of your warm-up can help you gauge your vocal condition for the day and prepare your voice for more intricate exercises and songs.
9 Cool Down After Singing
Just as it’s essential to warm up before singing, cooling down afterwards is equally crucial. A proper cool-down helps to relax your vocal cords and reduce any swelling caused by vigorous vocal activity. Gentle humming or soft scales can be effective for this. Spending a few minutes on a cool-down can help maintain the health of your vocal cords and prepare them for your next singing session.
Breath and Voice Control
Mastering the art of singing goes beyond just hitting the right notes; it’s about how you control your breath to produce those notes. This section delves into the critical aspects of breath and voice control that can make or break a performance. From learning how to sustain long notes to mastering the subtleties of vocal dynamics, these tips will equip you with the skills you need for more nuanced and controlled singing. By understanding and applying these techniques, you’ll be well on your way to elevating your singing from good to great.
10 Stay Relaxed
Maintaining a relaxed posture is crucial for optimal voice control and breath management. Tension in your shoulders, neck, or jaw can hinder your vocal performance, restricting your range and affecting your tone. To ensure you stay relaxed, take a few moments before singing to do some light stretching or focused breathing exercises.
During your performance or practice, be mindful of any signs of tension. If you notice yourself tensing up, pause and take a few deep breaths, consciously relaxing your muscles. Keeping a relaxed demeanour not only improves your vocal quality but also enhances your overall stage presence and comfort while singing.
11 Mind the Tongue Position
The position of your tongue can have a significant impact on the clarity and quality of your sound. An improperly placed tongue can cause constriction in the throat, leading to a nasal or muffled tone. For most vowel sounds, the tongue should lay flat at the bottom of the mouth. For consonants like ‘t’ and ‘d,’ it will naturally rise to the roof. Being mindful of your tongue position can improve your articulation and help produce a cleaner, more resonant sound.
12 Use Anchoring Techniques
Anchoring techniques involve using physical cues or “anchors” to help maintain consistent vocal quality. This could be a particular stance, a hand gesture, or even a facial expression that enables you to focus and stabilise your voice. For example, some singers plant their feet firmly on the ground to help control breath and diaphragm movement. These anchors can serve as a physical reminder to employ good technique, particularly during complex passages where it’s easy to lose focus. By incorporating anchoring techniques into your practice, you can achieve a more reliable and controlled vocal performance.
13 Project Your Voice
Learning to project your voice is crucial for capturing your audience’s attention and delivering a compelling performance. It’s not about singing louder, but rather about using your breath and diaphragm to send your voice further with clarity and strength. Good projection ensures that even those at the back of the room can hear you clearly without you straining your vocal cords. This skill is essential for all types of singing environments, be it a small gathering or a large venue. Mastering voice projection can make a significant difference in the impact of your performance.
Vocal Techniques and Exercises
Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to move on to more advanced vocal techniques and exercises. This section is your guide to mastering the finer aspects of singing, such as pitch control, vocal tone, and resonance. These are the tools that will add depth and versatility to your performances. Whether you’re looking to hit those high notes effortlessly or aiming for a richer, fuller sound, these singing tips are absolutely essential when learning how to be a better singer.
14 Master Your Vowel Shapes
The way you shape your vowels can dramatically affect the tone and clarity of your singing. Different vowel shapes can either enhance or muffle the sound you produce. A helpful exercise to improve this is to practice singing scales while focusing on each vowel shape (A, E, I, O, U). Pay attention to how your mouth and lips move, as well as how the sound resonates in your vocal tract.
To get started, sing a simple five-note scale (C-D-E-F-G) on the vowel ‘A.’ Notice how it feels and sounds. Repeat this for ‘E,’ ‘I,’ ‘O,’ and ‘U.’ Your goal is to produce a clear, resonant sound for each vowel without straining your vocal cords.
15 Practice Pitching
Pitch accuracy is vital for any singer, and fortunately, there are several techniques you can use to improve it. One effective exercise involves matching pitch with a piano or a tuning app. Simply play a note and try to match it with your voice, focusing on hitting the pitch precisely without any wobble or drift.
Another technique is to record yourself singing and then play it back to identify any pitch issues. You can also practice scales and arpeggios, concentrating on hitting each note squarely in the middle of the pitch.
Lastly, practising with a metronome can help you maintain a steady pitch, especially during more complicated runs or fast passages. With consistent practice of these techniques, you’ll find that your pitch control becomes more reliable, enhancing your overall singing quality.
16 Expand Your Vocal Range
Increasing your vocal range can open up a whole new repertoire of songs and styles for you to explore. One effective way to start expanding your range is by using the “slide” technique. Begin by singing a note that’s comfortably within your range and then slide up or down the scale to stretch your limits. Make sure to do this gradually to avoid straining your voice.
Another approach is to practice scales that go beyond your comfort zone, but only by a note or two at first. As you become more comfortable hitting those notes, you can extend the scales further.
Consistent practice, combined with proper warm-ups and cool-downs, can help you safely and gradually extend your vocal range.
17 Improve Vocal Tone and Resonance
A rich vocal tone and good resonance can make all the difference in your singing. One way to work on this is through “open-throat” singing exercises. Start by taking a deep breath and imagining your throat opening up as if you were about to yawn. Sing a scale or a simple melody while maintaining this open-throat position.
18 Hum for Resonance
Humming is a simple yet effective exercise for improving vocal resonance. Begin by taking a deep breath and humming a comfortable note. Feel for the vibrations in your face, particularly around the nose and mouth area. These vibrations indicate that you are achieving good resonance.
To take it a step further, you can hum while gently placing your hands on your chest and throat. This will help you become more aware of how your voice resonates throughout your body. Make it a habit to include humming exercises in your vocal routine to boost your resonance and improve the overall quality of your voice.
19 Don’t Push for High Notes
It’s tempting to push your voice when trying to reach those high notes, but doing so can lead to strain and even vocal damage. Instead of forcing it, focus on proper breath support and placement to help you reach higher pitches. A helpful exercise for this is to sing a scale up to your highest comfortable note and then try to go one or two notes higher using only breath support, not force.
Another technique is to tilt your head slightly up when approaching high notes, as this can create more space in your vocal tract, making it easier to hit those challenging pitches. However, the key is to remain relaxed and not to push your voice beyond its natural limits. With consistent practice and proper technique, you’ll find that those high notes become increasingly attainable.
20 Avoid Jaw Tension
Jaw tension can be a significant hindrance to achieving a clear, relaxed vocal tone. A clenched or tight jaw can restrict your vocal range and even lead to muscle strain over time. To check for jaw tension, place your fingers on your jawline and open your mouth as if you were going to sing. If you feel any tightness, try to consciously relax the jaw muscles.
A useful exercise to alleviate jaw tension is to gently massage the jaw muscles before singing or practising. You can also try exercises that involve opening your mouth wide and then relaxing, repeating this several times to encourage jaw flexibility.
21 Focus on Phrasing
Phrasing in singing refers to how you break up lines and passages in a song to convey emotion and meaning. Proper phrasing can add depth and nuance to your performance. One way to improve your phrasing is to practice singing along with songs that have strong emotional content. Pay attention to how the original singer breaks up the lines and try to emulate that style.
Another approach is to experiment with different ways of singing a line or phrase. Try elongating certain words, adding pauses, or changing the dynamics to add emphasis. The key is to make the phrasing feel natural and in tune with the emotional message of the song.
22 Focus on Resonance Spaces
Understanding and utilising different resonance spaces in your vocal tract can drastically improve the quality of your voice. Resonant spaces such as the chest, throat, mouth, and nasal passages contribute to a unique tonal quality. For example, chest resonance gives your voice a fuller, richer sound, while nasal resonance can add brightness and projection.
To explore these resonance spaces, try singing a single note or a simple melody while shifting your focus from one resonance space to another. Notice how the tone changes as you move from chest to nasal resonance. Experimenting with these spaces will help you discover a more versatile vocal tone.
23 Master Your Registers
Your voice has different registers, such as chest voice, head voice, and whistle register, each offering a unique sound and texture. Learning to transition smoothly between these registers is crucial for a well-rounded vocal performance.
One exercise to help with this is the “siren exercise,” where you start in your lowest note in chest voice and slide all the way up to your highest note in head voice, and then back down.
Another method is to practice scales that cross the break between your chest and head voice, focusing on making the transition as seamless as possible. The goal is to eliminate any noticeable ‘flip’ or ‘crack’ as you switch from one register to another.
24 Practise Runs and Riffs
Runs and riffs add flair and complexity to your singing, but they require control and precision. To get started, choose a simple run or riff from a song you like and slow it down. Break it into smaller segments and practise each one until you can sing it cleanly. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.
It’s crucial to maintain good breath support and pitch accuracy while practising runs and riffs. Start slow, and don’t rush the process. With consistent practice, you’ll find that your ability to execute these intricate vocal embellishments improves significantly.
Vocal Health and Lifestyle Tips
A good voice isn’t just the result of natural talent and practice; it also requires a healthy lifestyle. This section is your go-to guide for maintaining optimal vocal health. With tips ranging from hydration to sleep and physical fitness, you’ll discover how to keep your vocal cords in prime condition. These guidelines are not just vital for your immediate performance but are integral to ensuring the longevity of your singing career. Adopt these habits, and you’ll be on your way to achieving and maintaining vocal excellence.
25 Hydrate
Hydration is key to vocal health. Water acts as a lubricant for your vocal cords, helping them vibrate more efficiently and reducing the risk
of strain or injury. Aim to drink plenty of water before, during, and after singing to keep your voice at its best. Room temperature or warm water is often recommended, as cold water can constrict your vocal cords.
26 Avoid Dairy Before Singing
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yoghurt may taste great, but they’re not the best friends of a singer. Consuming dairy can lead to the production of excess mucus, which coats your vocal cords and can affect your voice quality. This mucus can make it harder to hit those high notes and sustain a clear tone. If you have a performance or practice session coming up, it’s best to steer clear of dairy products for at least a few hours beforehand.
27 Get Quality Sleep
Adequate sleep is crucial for optimal vocal performance. Lack of sleep can result in vocal fatigue, reduced range, and a lack of control. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night, especially before important performances or recording sessions.
Good sleep supports not just your voice but also your overall health, improving focus, energy levels, and emotional stability—all essential elements for a compelling performance. Making quality sleep a priority is an often-overlooked but essential aspect of becoming a better singer.
28 Incorporate Physical Exercise
Physical fitness can positively impact your singing by improving lung capacity, stamina, and posture. Cardiovascular exercises like running or swimming are particularly beneficial for increasing breath control, which is crucial for sustained singing. Strength training can also be beneficial, especially exercises that target the core muscles, which play a crucial role in breath support.
Regular exercise not only enhances your singing ability but also boosts your overall stage presence and energy levels.
29 Mind Your Diet
What you eat and drink can have a significant impact on your voice. Foods that are too spicy or greasy can cause issues like acid reflux, which is detrimental to vocal health. On the other hand, foods rich in vitamins and hydration can be beneficial. Pay attention to how different foods affect your voice, and try to stick to a balanced diet that supports your singing goals.
30 Limit Caffeine and Alcohol
While caffeine and alcohol might seem like quick fixes for nerves or low energy, they can negatively impact your vocal performance. Both are diuretics, which means they can lead to dehydration and leave your vocal cords dry, increasing the risk of strain. Specifically, alcohol can also impair your judgement, affecting your vocal control and stage presence.
It’s advisable to limit your intake of both substances, especially close to a performance or practice session. If you do choose to indulge, counteract the dehydrating effects by drinking plenty of water.
31 Implement Rest Days
Just like any other muscle in your body, your vocal cords need time to rest and recover. Continuously pushing your voice without adequate vocal rest can lead to fatigue and strain, which could develop into more serious issues over time. Implementing rest days into your practice schedule gives your vocal cords the break they need to repair and strengthen. This downtime is not only good for your vocal health but also essential for improving your overall singing ability.
Performance Skills & Tips
Once you’ve honed your vocal technique, it’s time to focus on the other half of the equation: your performance skills. This section is all about taking your well-rehearsed voice and delivering a performance that captivates your audience. From stage presence to emotional delivery, these tips will guide you in transforming from a singer into a true performer. Whether you’re looking to overcome stage fright or master the art of audience engagement, this section offers the tools you’ll need. So if you’re wondering how to become a great singer, not just a good one, read on.
32 Sing with Emotion
Conveying emotion is one of the most impactful ways to connect with your audience. It’s not just about singing the notes; it’s about delivering them with feeling. To practise this, pick a song that resonates emotionally with you. As you sing, focus on the lyrics and the story they tell. Try to channel the corresponding emotions through your voice.
Another useful exercise is to sing while thinking of a personal experience that aligns with the song’s emotions. This can help you naturally infuse your performance with genuine feeling, making it more compelling to your audience.
33 Add Dynamics
Dynamics refer to the variations in loudness and intensity in your singing. Effectively using dynamics can add depth and interest to your performance. For example, you might start a verse softly and gradually build up to a powerful chorus.
To practise dynamics, choose a song you know well and identify spots where you can add crescendos (gradual increases in volume) or decrescendos (gradual decreases in volume). Work on smoothly transitioning between these dynamic levels without sacrificing tone quality or pitch. Experimenting with dynamics will not only make your performances more engaging but also showcase your technical skills.
34 Use a Metronome
Keeping time is a fundamental skill for any performer, and using a metronome can significantly improve your rhythm and timing. It’s especially useful when practising songs with complex time signatures or rapid tempo changes. To start, set the metronome to a comfortable speed and try singing along, focusing on matching each beat.
As you become more comfortable, you can increase the tempo or use the metronome to practise specific rhythmic patterns within a song. Consistent practice with a metronome will help you internalise a strong sense of timing, making you a more reliable and skilled performer.
35 Modulate Tempo
Tempo modulation, or changing the speed of a song, can add a new layer of complexity and interest to your performance. This could be as simple as slowing down for a dramatic bridge or speeding up for an energetic chorus. To practise this, choose a song you’re familiar with and identify parts where a tempo change could enhance the emotional impact or energy.
Begin by singing these sections at different tempos while keeping the rest of the song at its original speed. Work on making these transitions as smooth as possible, ensuring that the changes feel natural and serve the song’s overall mood. Mastering tempo modulation can make your performances more dynamic and captivating.
36 Sing with Others
Singing in a group, whether it’s a duet, trio, or larger ensemble, offers a unique set of challenges and rewards. It requires listening carefully to others while maintaining your own pitch, rhythm, and dynamics. One way to practise this is by joining a local choir or teaming up with fellow singers for duets or group performances.
In a group setting, focus on blending your voice with the others, paying attention to harmonies and timing. It’s not just about standing out but about contributing to a collective sound. The experience of singing with others not only enhances your musicality but also adds a communal dimension to your practice, helping you become a more versatile and adaptable performer.
37 Know the Lyrics
Memorising the lyrics is a basic yet crucial step in delivering a compelling performance. Fumbling over words can distract from your vocal technique and disconnect you from your audience. To master the lyrics, start by reading them several times over, even reciting them as spoken word to understand their meaning and rhythm.
Once you’re familiar with the words, try singing them a cappella or with minimal instrumental backing. This will help you focus solely on the lyrics and their correct delivery. Knowing the lyrics inside out allows you to focus on other aspects of your performance, such as emotion and dynamics, making for a more polished and engaging show.
38 Smile When Appropriate
Your facial expressions can add a lot to your performance, and a well-timed smile can make a world of difference. Smiling not only engages your audience but can also positively affect your vocal tone, making it brighter and more pleasant. However, the key is to make it appropriate to the song’s mood. Smiling during a sad or intense song could confuse your audience and detract from the emotional impact.
Practise singing in front of a mirror and experiment with different facial expressions to match the song’s mood. Being aware of your facial expressions and using them wisely will help you connect more effectively with your audience.
39 Integrate Storytelling
Storytelling isn’t just for the lyrics; it’s a performance skill that involves conveying the narrative or emotion of a song through your voice and actions. This could mean altering your tone, dynamics, or even your physical stance to fit the storyline or message of the song.
To practise, choose a song that tells a story or conveys a strong emotion. As you sing, think about how you can use your vocal and physical expressions to bring that story to life. Whether it’s through nuanced phrasing or dramatic pauses, integrating storytelling into your performances makes them more engaging and memorable.
40 Keep a Performance Journal
A performance journal is a valuable tool for tracking your progress and identifying areas for improvement. After each performance or practice session, jot down notes about what went well and what didn’t. Include specifics like vocal techniques that felt solid, moments where you lost your timing, or audience reactions to different parts of your performance.
Over time, you’ll have a detailed record of your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to focus your practice more effectively. Plus, looking back on past entries can be a great motivator, showing you just how far you’ve come in your journey to become a better singer.
41 Work on Stage Presence
Your stage presence can make or break a live performance. It’s not just about your vocal prowess, but also how you engage with your audience and command attention. Effective stage presence involves a mix of factors, including your body language, eye contact, and how you move on stage.
To enhance your stage presence, practise not just your songs but also your stage movements. Rehearse in front of a mirror or record yourself to evaluate your performance objectively. Work on making eye contact with your audience instead of staring at a fixed point or closing your eyes too often. Remember, a strong stage presence amplifies your musical talent, creating a memorable experience for your audience.
42 Improve Your Mic Technique
A good microphone technique is essential for both stage performances and studio recordings. How you hold and use the mic can drastically affect the sound quality, potentially making or breaking your performance. Learning to control your distance from the microphone can help you manage volume and capture the nuances of your voice effectively.
Practise different mic positions to find what works best for your vocal style. For instance, holding the mic closer will capture softer, more intimate vocals, while pulling it away can help during louder, more powerful sections. Being adept at mic technique not only ensures that your voice is heard clearly but also gives you greater control over your vocal dynamics and tone.
43 Use In-Ear Monitors
In-ear monitors (IEMs) are a game-changer for live performances and even some studio sessions. They provide a direct audio feed into your ears, allowing you to hear yourself and other instruments clearly, irrespective of external noise and distractions. This can significantly improve your pitch accuracy, timing, and overall performance.
If you’re new to using IEMs, it may take some time to adjust. Start by practising with them during your rehearsal sessions to get accustomed to the feel and sound. You can also customise the audio mix to focus on the elements that are most crucial for your performance. Using in-ear monitors can elevate your singing experience, offering you greater control and consistency.
44 Experiment with Vocal Effects
In the modern age of music, vocal effects like reverb, delay, and auto-tune have become increasingly popular. While these should never replace solid vocal technique, they can add an extra layer of polish or creativity to your performances. Whether you’re singing in a studio or live, experiment with different effects to see how they can enhance or alter your sound.
Start with subtle changes, like a touch of reverb to add some space to your vocals. As you get more comfortable, you can explore more dramatic effects like vocoders or pitch correction. Always remember, the goal is to complement your natural voice, not to overshadow it.
Self-Assessment & Improvement
As you journey towards becoming a better singer, self-assessment plays a vital role. While innate talent and practice are essential, leveraging tools and techniques to evaluate your skills can provide invaluable insights into your progress. This section delves into straightforward yet effective methods for self-assessment that can help you fine-tune your skills, correct imperfections, and take your singing to the next level.
45 Record Yourself
One of the most straightforward ways to assess your singing is to record yourself. Listening to playback allows you to catch nuances you might miss while performing, such as pitch issues, uneven tempo, or problems with phrasing. Use a high quality microphone and decent quality recording software to get a clear audio capture.
To make the most of this method, try to listen critically and jot down areas for improvement. Doing this regularly can help you track your progress over time and become more aware of both your strengths and weaknesses.
46 Use a Mirror
Practising in front of a mirror gives you real-time visual feedback on your posture, facial expressions, and mouth positioning, among other things. This can help you identify bad habits like slouching or unnecessary tension in the face and jaw. A mirror can also help you fine-tune your stage presence by allowing you to experiment with different expressions and movements.
Watching yourself as you sing can make you more aware of how you come across to an audience, providing you with the opportunity to make immediate adjustments. It’s a simple yet effective tool for self-assessment and improvement.
47 Use a Vocal Coach
While self-assessment is valuable, the guidance of a skilled vocal coach can be transformative. A coach provides expert feedback that can help you refine your technique, extend your vocal range, and work on specific issues you may not even be aware of. Sessions with a vocal coach can offer tailored exercises and actionable advice, providing a structured path for your vocal development.
Even a few sessions can yield noticeable improvements, helping you to break through plateaus and reach new heights in your singing.
48 Use Visual Aids and Software
Utilising visual aids can offer a different perspective on your singing technique and performance. Charts, diagrams, or even apps that provide visual feedback on pitch and tone can be handy. These tools can help you understand the technical aspects of singing in a more concrete way.
For example, spectrogram apps can show you the overtones you’re producing, helping you fine-tune your resonance and vocal tone. Similarly, pitch-tracking software can visually show you how close you are to hitting the correct notes, providing real-time feedback. By incorporating visual aids into your practice routine, you can add another layer of self-assessment that complements auditory and kinesthetic learning.
49 Take an Online Singing Course
Online singing courses offer a flexible and convenient way to improve your vocal skills. Whether you’re interested in mastering specific techniques, ex
tending your range, or learning a new genre, there’s likely a course tailored to your needs. Most courses provide video tutorials, exercises, and even community forums for peer feedback.
Taking an online course allows you to learn at your own pace and revisit lessons as often as needed. While not a complete substitute for one-on-one coaching, a well-designed online course can provide a structured approach to your vocal training, making it a valuable tool for self-assessment and skill development.
50 Practise Regularly
Consistency is key when it comes to improving your singing. Setting aside regular time for vocal exercises and practice sessions will yield noticeable improvements over time. Whether it’s daily drills or a structured weekly regimen, frequent singing practice allows you to continually refine your technique, extend your range, and build your vocal stamina. Remember, the more you practise, the more ingrained good habits become, making it easier to perform well under any circ*mstance.
Advanced Skills and Training
Sorry, did we say just 50 tips on how to sing better? Let’s carry on!
Ready to push your vocal limits? You’ve covered the essentials, sharpened your stage skills, and you’re primed for the next challenge. This section delves into the nitty-gritty of advanced vocal techniques and training regimes that can help you stand out from the crowd.
Whether it’s mastering sight reading, honing your ear training, or exploring different musical genres, these tips are tailored for those who are serious about taking their vocal skills to the pinnacle of excellence. If you’re determined to go from being a good singer to a great one, the advanced skills outlined here could be your stepping stone.
51 Practise Sight Reading
Sight-reading is the ability to read and sing music notation almost instantly, without prior rehearsal. This skill can set you apart in auditions and make you a more versatile and adaptable performer. It’s particularly useful for singers who work with choirs, musical theatre, or studio recording sessions.
To get started, find simple sheet music that you’ve never seen before. Attempt to sing it accurately on your first go, paying attention to pitch, rhythm, and dynamics. As you become more comfortable, gradually move on to more complex pieces. Regular practice of sight-reading will not only make you a more marketable singer but also deepen your understanding of music theory and composition.
52 Do Ear Training
Ear training is the practice of developing your listening skills to better identify musical elements like pitch, intervals, and rhythms. A finely tuned ear is invaluable for singers, enabling you to harmonise more easily, stay in tune, and even create your own melodies. There are several apps and online courses designed to help you with ear training, covering everything from basic pitch recognition to complex chord progressions.
Start by dedicating a few minutes each day to listening exercises. Try to identify intervals, match pitches, or recognise chord qualities. As you progress, challenge yourself with more complex exercises like transcribing melodies or identifying modulations in a piece of music. A well-trained ear not only improves your singing but also enhances your overall musicianship.
53 Explore Different Genres
Dabbling in various musical genres can enrich your vocal skills and artistic range. Each genre has its unique techniques, stylistic elements, and vocal requirements. For instance, singing jazz may improve your improvisational skills, while classical training can offer rigorous technical exercises. Exploring different styles exposes you to new vocal challenges and artistic inspirations.
To get started, choose a genre you’re less familiar with and dive into its popular songs, vocal techniques, and history. Try to emulate the distinct vocal styles and nuances that define that genre. Not only will this make you a more versatile singer, but it also opens up additional avenues for performance and collaboration.
How to Get Better at Singing? Practise!
You’ve just delved into a comprehensive guide filled with tips and insights designed to take your singing to the next level. From mastering the basics of posture and breath control to honing your stage presence and navigating the recording studio, each piece of advice aims to equip you with the skills needed for vocal excellence. So, if you’re wondering how to get better at singing, you’ve got your roadmap right here. Now it’s time to dive in, practise diligently, and let your voice soar.
