Make it Buzz!!!

When you study singing, all the different techniques and exercises point toward one goal. What is that goal? Finding your optimal vocal focus. Being able to focus the voice so that it feels free from any strain in the larynx and has the desired resonance is key for any style of singing. When I was studying in college, there was a term used that made me absolutely cringe; legit singing. What this meant was that in order for music to be worth studying, it had to fall into the umbrella of being classical, and the desired resonance would have that operatic tone. I disagree whole heartily. My thought is that if you properly train a voice, it should be able to sing many styles effectively and the difference in sound has to do with the way you focus the sounds and nothing else.

So here's a technique to try that involves finding your voice's focus and identifying the different muscle groups needed to make it work. Hum. That may seem really simple, but try! And when you try, make an effort to get your lips buzzing. I'm talking about the kind of buzzing that makes your lips tingle like crazy. Now pay attention to the different muscle groups being engaged to make that tingle happen. Do you use your support muscles (diaphragm, abdomen, rib cage) differently? Are you running out of air faster/slower than before? Is there any sign of tension in the throat (there shouldn't be)? If you start on middle C on the piano, and go up the scale chromatically (half steps) what you'll notice is that each note resonates in a very distinct location on your face. If you practice this enough you can actually start to memorize different notes based on how each note vibrates. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

The other warm up that I use often that utilizes this same thought process is on a single note, sing Mi, Me, Ma, Mo, Mu up and down the scale. If you hang out on the 'M' a bit longer, you can use that humming motion to place the sound and then when you open up to the vowel you should be able to keep the sound focused right behind the lips.

Disclaimer: Don't over sing! If the exercise is straining in any way, shape or form, STOP!!! Feel free to ask questions and I'll do my best to clarify.