The three D's for How to Have a Better Beautiful Singing Voice
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The three D's to Better Singing
The secret to change, any kind of change is a result of the application of the Three D’s –
Desire
Determination
My goal in this article, is to convince singers that by following the tips I have laid out for them, they can change their own vocal sound for the better. During the time that I was a guest on radio and television talk shows, the question that I was asked the most was “How long should I practice each day?” My answer was “it is not how long we practice, but HOW we practice that brings fast and lasting good results.” The singer must strive for consistency. To sing with a strong vocal sound, with clear diction and beautiful tone each and every time we sing is not only our goal, but our prime responsibility as singers.
The Desire to Change
The desire to change and improve upon our present singing sound requires action. We will not change our singing voice by just thinking about it. And we cannot change our tone by repeatedly singing a song over and over again. In fact, repeating a wrong or incorrect habit only ingrains the bad habit, making the desire for change frustrating and even at times impossible.
If we have the desire to lose a few pounds, but continue to eat the same way and avoid exercise, we have not taken action. Nothing has changed. We continue eating the same way and refuse to move our bodies. Our habits can shorten our life span and invite health problems, all because we have not taken action.
Our desire to sing better, finds us studying with the finest vocal coach. We are given proper vocal techniques to learn and study. We are excited about the possibilities that await us. Now that we have a qualified teacher, we will surely hear a magnificent difference in our singing. We clearly understand how to make the necessary changes in our voice. We set up our weekly practice schedule, full of good intentions. Then, the distractions occur. The phone rings, a family member interrupts our concentration, we are called to dinner, our favorite tv show is about to begin, and on and on.
The desire to change calls for a plan. Design your practice sessions during a quiet time and stick to it. (This is a whole other lesson, coming soon).
Discipline - and lot's of it!
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."
Aristotle
It has been said that Self-discipline is the ability to get yourself to take action regardless of your emotional state. I like this analogy – by Steve Palina - “Self-discipline is like a muscle. The more you train it, the stronger you become. The less you train it, the weaker you become.”
So it is with the singing voice. The more you train and practice correct vocal techniques, the stronger the voice becomes. Train and discipline yourself to stick to a practice routine. In time, it will become a habit and one that you will enjoy and benefit from.
Surround yourself with supportive people.and avoid those who are negative and critical.
Determination – Never Give up
Determination is the key to developing the kind of voice you would like to have. How much do you really want to sing and sound just great? The basic keys to a great voice are:
- Total control over your voice. Practice proper breathing techniques Nothing else works right until you learn this basic principle. Be determined to spend the time needed to develope this magnificent tool.
- Singing on key. There is no excuse for singing flat or sharp. If you have trouble with pitch or don't know if you are singing on key, get help here. Proper Diction - If you have not learned how to shape the vowels that make up the words you sing, learn how now. Sloppy pronounciation of lyrics cause your voice to lose tonal enegry as well as muffle the sound.
- Open Throat. If the soft palate is not activated (lifted) during phonation, your sound is trapped. It cannot "travel" and project. This is an important technique to learn.
- Vibrato. Some styles of music call for a nice, controlled vibrato. Keep the neck and shoulders relaxed when using vibrato. Cpontrol the speed of oscillations.
- Posture. Your body is your instrument, therefore you must use correct posture each time you sing. Your singing muscles must be supported properly.
- Vocal registration (resonating areas). Learning how to place your singing in the right resonating chamber adds richness and quality to your voice.
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The three D's for Better Singing
Whether you plan to be a professional singer or just sing for the love of it, the discipline required for learning how to sing also relates to other areas of life.
One thing is for sure,singing is a wonderful way to express yourself. Vocal lessons help to improve a person's self-esteem because they are working to better themselves.
A bird doesn't sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song. ~Maya Angelou
He who sings frightens away his ills. ~Miguel de Cervantes, Don Quixote
Some days there won't be a song in your heart. Sing anyway. ~Emory Austin
Sing out loud in the car even, or especially, if it embarrasses your children. ~Marilyn Penland
The singer has everything within him. The notes come out from his very life. They are not materials gathered from outside. ~Rabindranath Tagore
more hubs by vocalcoach Why I love to Teach Children How to Sing
Where is my Song? A Poem Frank Sinatra - The Man and His Music pt 1
How the Vocal Cords Work How Hubpages Changed my Life (Hubnugget Winner
A unique collection of Musical Quotes A Guide to Understanding Musical Terms
How you can Sing Like Nobody's Listening Me, Myself and I - A humorous Poem
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My ex husband took singing lessons from the time he was little, followed a teacher to Canada for a while and was on many productions in Honolulu. What he had was discipline.
There were times when I could not distinguish his voice from that of Placido Domingo or Andrea Bocelli, on tape. Oh it was so long ago.
I could look at it again now in my mind because I am no longer attached and know it was part of a great journey.
I do know this. He would have enjoyed you as teacher, beloved friend.
I sing for my personal enjoyment because it makes me feel happy not because I want to perform anywhere. I find you hubs about singing and voice inspiring in all areas. Thank you!
My lack of disipline,leaves me untrained with ability as a long ago member of me elementary school choir...I think another valuble attribute from vocal lessons is learning to project your voice in key.;)
Prasetio - I am honored that you would like to hear me sing. I will be posting a video of myself singing on youtube next month and will contact you when it is available. I also want you to know that I give vocal lessons using Skype Video on the computer. So, if you decide you would like a lesson with me, I will comp you a free lesson. That would be so much fun! Thank you, my dear friend for your support and kind comments. You have made my day a happy one. Love and blessings to you, Prasetio!
Mentalist acer - You are quite right. To project your voice it is necessary to 1. Fill the lungs with plenty of air 2. Sing from the correct vocal register to generate strong vibrations (usually the mask area)3. Use a generous mouth opening, along with lifting the soft palate. How nice to have you drop by and take an interest in my new hub. Thank you very much.
Dee - Your comments are valuable to me. You are singing for the only reason that counts - for the joy and because you feel happiness when you sing. Wonderful! Thank you dear lady.
mssorenson - Wow - I did not know the story about your ex husbands voice. He must have been gifted as well as disciplined to equal the voices of Tenors, Domingo and Bocelli. Both of these artists are on my favorites list. Such perfection vocally. You must have enjoyed listening to him practice as well as perform. And how honored I would have been to work with him. I can see that my article took you back in time for a brief moment. Isn't it amazing - how life brings us on such a journey? My great blessing of having met you here on HP is one example. What are the chances of you and I meeting one another, even through the use of a computer? Ah yes - life is good. I love you, my dear and beautiful friend - Melissa. God bless!
You are a true pro vc and your advice is right on the money. I've been watching the Beatles Anthology over the past week and it's been a joy to see your success list in action. I'm also a fan of Josh Groban :)
Good morning (Indonesia time), mzvocal. This is my second visit to this hub. I love your personality and I am glad to know your dedication and passion to help other in singing. I believe you are great teacher and you have marvelous talent in singing. I'll wait your video. Unfortunately, I never use Skype before. But I am so happy, because you have good intentions to taught me. I never hesitate to give my second vote to you. God bless you, my friend.
Prasetio:)
ps: I hope you want to visit my last hub about "the most beautiful princess in the world", I put your photo over there.
I really enjoyed this hub & the excellent practical advice!!
All the best
Steve
wilbury steve - Thanks for reading my hub and I appreciate the nice comment. Happy 2011 to you!
..this wonderful hub may be about singing and its many disciplines but I feel it's also about life itself which makes your writing assignement here so much more profound and deep and soulful - and it's all because of you - this beautiful lady behind it - so dedicated and sincere to her art and her students - well it makes me want to sing and I make Pavarotti sound like Leonard Cohen!!!!
Dear vocalcoach, if I were near you - I would hire you to teach me to sing. I love to sing. But my voice is not strong and repeated use doesn't seem to help. I love your work! Thank you dear!
..now there's enough reason for you my dear vocal coach to sing "the hubs are alive with the sound of music ..........." a visit from both the epigramman and the legendary Sir Micky Dee!!!!!
Very interesting inside knowledge of a wold I hadn't got idea about. Thank you.
Hello, hello - The 3 D's are also necessary in living a successful life. I think most musicians fail to think about these 3 D's as they strive to develope their talents. Now, if only I would put this into practice as I procrastinate on organizing my files and closet. :-)
Thank you dear Hello.
I've taken a few singing lessons from a CD rom called Teach Yourself to Sing. I also enjoyed watching the girl learn to sing on a little known movie called Rigoletto. We need more singing--everyone can improve, even if everyone doesn't have "the gift." It's what you do with what you've got, right? :)
How you fill my heart "with the sound of music". Your hubs also fill me with joy, laughter and knowledge. You are one-of-a-kind Epigramman. You always support and motivate others. I am proud to be part of the "family".
Thank you, dear brother.
Fantastic advice - excellent encouragement... brilliant quotes! And to think the three D’s is not only the key for better singing, but also for doing and being every single thing. I love this kind of inspirational articles, Audrey, especially this one who was clearly written by a woman who practice DDD every day of her life. Thanks, you are a born teacher. Please let me know when you’re video is available on U-tube.
MartieCoester - I am humbled by your words - inspired even more by your beautiful heart. Being a teacher is a huge responsibility entertwined with huge benefits. Thank you Martie - Stay Close!
GreenLotus - I am not surprised that we are both Josh Groban fans. The Beatles changed music forever with their genius. And you changed my life because you were the first hubber to welcome me into the fold, encourage me with your comments and first class hubs. I will love you forever! :-)
prasetio30 - How wonderful to see you again! Your gentle words fill my heart with joy and warmth. I am astounded and thrilled to learn that you have mentioned me in your hub. I am so honored. I will visit this new article soon.
You are a "quiet anchor" in my life. Stay close.
Sounds like the voice is a tool and one that should be exercised to work its best. Makes perfect since. Thank you for the great tips for singers. Also I would think singing is good for the body and mind. Peace and Love and do keep those golden pipes well! :) Katie
katie - La, la, la, la, la..."you make me feel so young" (Frank Sinatra Version). You have just given me an idea for a new hub. "Why singing is good for the body and mind". Look for it soon and, gee, thank you katie! :)
I took some voice lessons. Most helpful. I love singing, but right now, confine my efforts to choral singing.
This is a good hub. My voice teacher told me "You use your face like a Northerner. Listening to you speak, I would not have known you were a Texan. Northerners are very concerned with pronouncing everything correctly." So the idea was that I needed more looseness in my lips, cheeks, and jaw to free up the sound. I need to keep this in mind, and it's something my choir director might advise as well.
l honestly thought people were either gifted with a singing voice or not... What an insightful hub this was for me. Thank you.
Silver Poet - I believe we all have a "gift" to sing. Singing is an extension of our speaking voice, supported by air, confidenc and joy! I, too offer singing lessons on a CD as well as "Skype" video program. I help and support those who want to sing better all over the world through skype. It is a great joy for me and the very reason for my being. Sing, my dear friend. Let is out. Allow your vocal sound to be free and easy, giving you a sense of peace and joy. Trust your god-given right. Thank you for stopping by and stay close! :)
Micky Dee - Your poems are songs ready to be set to music - the music in your heart, the music which radiates from nature, the music that touches your face through the breeze, as you ride your bike. Sing, Micky, sing! Love your sweet comments. :) Stay healthy.
gracenotes - First, I want to congratulate you for good diction. Next, I am impressed that you are supporting your choir. Much can be learned about singing correctly (with a good conductor), in a choir. Thanks for visiting and have a great day.
Dim - Most people believe the concept that we must be born with a great voice in order to sing well. This is just not true. In my 35 years to teaching, many of my students have come to me who were turned down by other teachers. Over half of them reached their goals and dreams as singers. I have had several singers make it to the Broadway Musical Stage in lead roles, some perform on cruise lines, others sing for a living , are finalists on American Idol etc. Thanks Dim. :)
Thanks vocalcoach. Regarding choral singing, if you've done a lot of it, and then go see a vocal coach, she may say something like, "Aren't you ever going to breathe?" Ha ha -- in a choir, you are given permission to breathe.
Also, a perfectionist choir director is very concerned about good consonants, which is usually not the most important goal of the solo singer!
Bottom line, a good choir director teaches all the time, but with a slightly different emphasis. I learned a lot from one of them in the past.
gracenotes - I spent several years as a choir director (Southern California Mormon Tabernacle Choir). I understand what you mean about the breathing. Choirs use "staggard breathing" for a smooth legato sound. Vocal coaches and instructors, if they are qualified also stress proper diction as this helps project the vocal sound as well as be understood. If the choir conductor is schooled in vocal pedagogy, vocal techniques are the same for both choir director and vocal coahes and instructors. Thank you so much for your comments. I thoroughly enjoyed them. Have a magnificent day! :-)
Hope you don't mind one more comment. I'd much rather work on vowels than consonants! And oh, me -- I'm suitably impressed that you used to direct the S.C. Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
gracenotes - You have it right! Vowels "carry" the sound as well as form and clarify the lyric. This , of course, is all accomplished with correct lip, jaw and tongue position. Don't be too impressed with my conducting the MTC - I really wasn't all that prepared back in those days. (I just thought I was :) Enjoy talking music with you gracenotes, anytime. Peace and joy to you.
This was a very interesting hub! My family and my husband's are very musically inclined. His sister sang in broadways before and my late aunt was the founder and conductor of the Philippine Concert Chorale. She was a music teacher. My mother whom just passed away recently was a soloist in my aunt's choir along with my brother, sister and cousins. I was also a member of the PCC and sang in choirs as well with my husband. Although I am not what you call a 'soloist,' I'm more of a dancer, sacred dancer to be exact, my singing voice have become better over the years. One thing I would admit though is that I would like to improve my singing voice. My son is very musical; he loves to sing, and my hubby has a beautiful singing voice. We used to always have some sort of a 'musical entertainment' every time there's a family gathering. We still do (karaoke) sometimes. Although my older brother both sing and play the piano beautifully, which he got from our dearest mother. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, and writing this article. Looking forward to reading more of your hubs. Keep at it. God bless!
Caroline - I loved reading your wonderful comments. And if you decide on singing lessons, let me know as I offer a wonderful and fun way to improve upon the singing voice. I just read and commented on one of your hubs. It is about your mother. I wish I could have known her. What a beautiful, kind and courageous person! And you are such a sweet and loving daughter and person. How proud of you she is. Thank you, for your support and for reading my hub. God bless you, too.
Hi Vocalcoach! Yes, I just might contact you re: singing lessons. I've noticed that you are in TN. Do you give online singing lessons?-just wondering:-). Anyhow, it might be a possibility. Thanks for commenting on my hub, too. I've enjoyed reading your comments very much. I'm looking forward to reading more of your hubs, as well! Have a lovely day. Peace and blessings!
prasetio30 Level 8 Commenter 16 months ago
Very inspiring hub. I am glad to follow your tips. I love singing very much. I wish I could singing with you and hear your voice in person. I have a request for you. If you don't mind, I want you put your video while you singing. It would be nice to know and see your talent. This time, I learn much from you, my friend. You are my favorite singer and my favorite hubber too. I give my vote for you. Have a great day! Love and peace....
Prasetio:)