We often talk about the “gift of song” and this week I realized how closely my gift-giving philosophy and my giving-of-song philosophy were related. I discovered some interesting things – some I liked… others need some revision.
How we live is how we sing and I found this area to be no exception. Join me as we take a look a giving in our lives and in our music…
I did something this week that surprised even me; I signed up for dance class. With my performance background, it may not appear to be too far a stretch 🙂 … but this choice had nothing to do with resumes, backgrounds, or to-do lists… and everything to do with heart. And like with most tender ideas, it began with an intense tug-of-war as all of my inner critics gathered to tell me they thought…
Creating a yawning space while singing has long been a part of vocal pedagogy. Today let’s learn the benefits of this natural and simple yawn action and see what big pay-offs it has for your voice.
Imagine being 68 years-old, singing and playing music you love to sold out crowds across the globe… this is the life of Dave Mason, Hall of Fame inductee and singer/song writer/ guitarist of the 60’s band Traffic. This week,I was lucky enough to see his Denver concert and meet him back-stage. Here are 6 things Dave Mason does to keep his voice youthful, plus a vocal exercise to use elements of your natural speaking voice to help you sing with ease.
– Does your voice sound or feel breathy? Use the Zzz-uuuu-iii warm-up.
– Do you feel you placement is too far back? Try the Zzz-uuuu-iii warm-up.
– Do you want to get your air moving while gently waking-up your voice? Use the Zzz-uuuu-iiii warm-up.
Use this modified sit-up to activate your core and connect your breath and body to your singing voice!