The Old Songs

We have all heard our directors, coaches, and music educators speak of the importance of breathing correctly when we sing. We go through exercises during warm-ups each week to reinforce that notion. We hope that the repetition will translate into the songs that we sing. Unfortunately, that doesn’t often happen.

We get so focused on singing the proper words, notes, and dynamics of each song that we tend to forget the most important element: the breath.

Breathing for singing and breathing for living are two different things. Breathing for singing takes thought and practice. Fortunately for our ability to remain on this planet, breathing for living does not!

Focus your mind

We all need to be mindful of our breath when singing. When singing a song in rehearsal, what if the director stops and says: “Let’s do that part again. This time, I don’t want you to pay attention to the notes, words, or dynamics. I want you to sing and simply focus on your singing breath.”

That’s a difficult thing to do at first. Most singers want to sing songs. They’re not interested in the techniques as much. Since proper singing technique and support are so vital in a singer’s life, it is equally important to emphasize that aspect of training.

An exercise

Here’s what I suggest you do. When singing a familiar song, close your eyes (to avoid outside distractions) and focus your mind solely on your breath. Feel your lungs, ribs, and muscles expand with the full inhalation of breath. Mentally force your rib cage to remain open and high as you exhale during the song. NEVER let your rib cage collapse or sag. If you have to take an extra breath to get through a phrase, do it.

If you are unsure of how to keep the ribs open, stand with your back against a wall, with your feet about 12 inches or so from the wall. Or lie on your back on the floor, your knees bent, and your feet flat. Breathe fully. Be mindful of your ribs. Now sing a song. Keep your back to the wall and your ribs open. Breathe deeply again. Pay attention how it feels to breathe with your ribs open and your lungs expanded.

Your improvement as a singer is directly proportional to your ability to breathe properly. The power is all yours.

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