How to Project Your Voice

Remember that by singing, you are drawing attention to yourself. To hold that attention, you will have to raise and sustain your voice beyond the level of everyday conversation. This does not mean just turning up the volume, but delivering with concentrated energy.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Music Stands
• Pianos
• Sheet Music
• Microphones
• Music

Exercises

1. Learn the lyrics and the melody of a song you want to sing.

2. Sing that song in the vocal range that feels comfortable to you.

3. Think of attracting someone's attention without disturbing others.

4. Marshal all your forces and focus them mentally into one beam of sound.

5. Sing at moderate volume first, then as softly and beautifully as you can.

6. Send your voice forward like a beam of light that reaches the farthest seat in the gallery.

7. Color the note you are singing with your innermost feelings.

8. Launch your voice forward with a great burst of energy without forcing it. As soon as you feel discomfort in your throat, you are forcing it.

9. Allow the passion of the moment to direct your voice - don't just turn up the volume.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice this exercise on a daily basis, and you'll see how concentrating on the emotions of the song will make you less self-conscious about your singing. Notice how this exercise builds your self-confidence.

on 8/8/2006 After working 18 years at Renaissance faires, I think I've got this one covered. Open your mouth, stick out your tongue and pant like a dog. That muscle you feel yourself using is the diaphragm. It's your friend. Now, using that same muscle, say the word "Ha!" and note how it sounds different than when you shout it. Practice relaxing your throat and letting this other muscle do all of the work.

on 8/8/2006 My voice teacher tells me to imagine that the sound is coming from some hole in the top of my head and then arcing up and out. Also, try not to keep the sound inside but about 10-12 inches from your face. Too many people keep their sound "shut up" and it sounds forced.

on 7/10/2006 To sing high notes, squeeze your butt muscles. It sounds strange, but it really helps. I've also learned to pretend as if you are pushing down on a garbage lid or trying to push a ball under water.

on 3/25/2006 When you are trying to reach a low note, imagine that notes are dark, cool colors such as maroon or fuchsia. Because the colors are rich and deep, the sound will come out rich and deep as well.

on 11/22/2005 If you want to sing a certain high note, listen carefully to the actual sound and then picture yourself making that exact sound. Projection can be attained through practice. I used to be a very quiet singer, until I began singing all the time. As a result I can project easily without the need for microphones, which is very useful when radio mikes are not available.