How to Do the Going-Up Singing Exercise

Vocal control is one of the most important aspects of singing, as well as public speaking. The best way to gain control over your vocal chords is to exercise them daily. While there are many different vocal exercises one can do, going up scales is one of the best ways to wake up your voice and help give you proper breathing and singing control.

Things You'll Need

• Piano (or Internet)
• Water
• Good posture and breathing

Instructions

1. Start off this vocal exercise by checking your posture. Make sure that your shoulders are relaxed and your head and chin are level. Your back should be straight and you should release all tension that you’re holding in your neck.

2. Breathing properly is key within this exercise. When you are going up the scales, having full breath control will help you reach the higher notes as well as keep the notes clear and in tune. Make sure that when you take your breaths, they are from your diaphragm. Place your hands on your abdomen, right where your ribs meet in the center of your abs. When you inhale, this should be the only area within your upper body that expands. Never allow your chest or shoulders to rise when breathing. If you do this correctly, you will have superior support and vocal control.

3. You will want to begin this vocal exercise by finding the appropriate notes to start. There are many different scales you can use to perform this exercise. The C-Scale is by far the most popular. However, if you are unsure where to start, there are many online resources that will help you determine your appropriate scale and octave.

4. Once you start the exercise, gently glide your voice up the scale. You can perform this exercise with short notes (staccato) or you can sing the notes together. To warm up your voice initially, it is better to sing the notes separately (staccato). After you’ve warmed up your voice, then sing the scale up with smoother notes.

5. Once you begin to reach the top of your range, do not push past it. You never want to stress your vocal chords, as this can cause damage to them. The more you exercise your voice, however, the broader your range will become.

Tips & Warnings

• If you feel that this exercise is hard, simply slow it down. It is better to perform this exercise slowly, but accurately, than fast and inaccurately.

• Drink plenty of water before, during and after this exercise.

• Ensure that your shoulders never slump over or retain tension.

Resources

• Vocal Exercises from Vocalist