How to Check if One has Proper Breath Support for Singing

Having proper breath support is the most basic, most essential, prerequisite to successful singing. But many singers, including some who have taken formal voice lessons, fail to understand the basic mechanics of proper breath support. Don’t be one of those people. Here are a few simple exercises to get you started.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mirror
• Heavy hardcover book (such as a textbook)

1. Proper breath support comes from the diaphragm (in the abdominal area) not from the throat or chest. Begin by taking a deep breath and focusing on which parts of your body feel like they are expanding.

2. Place your hands on your sides, just above your hips. Your thumbs should be on your back just above your kidneys and your fingers should be even with (and pointing towards) your belly button.

3. Inhale deeply and hold. You should feel both your fingers and your thumbs move, as your stomach expands forward and backward. You should not feel your chest move. Let your breath out slowly and evenly.

4. Stand in front of a mirror. Take another deep breath and watch your shoulders. If they move upward in a subtle “shrugging” motion, if they move noticeably at all, your breath placement is too high. Focus on expanding from your stomach/diaphragm area while keeping your chest and shoulders stationary yet relaxed.

5. Lie on your back on the floor. Place the book on your stomach, over your belly button.

6. Inhale and exhale slowly, watching the book. It should move up and down noticeably with the rhythm of your breathing. Concentrate on moving the book up and down as much as you can without expanding your chest or moving your shoulders.

[Renee1771]

on 5/14/2008 Great advice! I always needed 2 know if i was breathing right, this really helps! Thankx!