Not so long ago I received an email from a singer by the name of Vanessa Murray. She was gathering information to help her with her MA dissertation on the topic of how touring affects the voice. I thought you might find this information of use too so have published the answers I gave her […]
It seems more and more singers are developing voice problems as they embark on their singing careers. Several recent famous examples include Adele, Sam Smith, Jess Glynne and John Mayer. In this video, Dr. Steven Zeitels talks about surgery like Adele’s and the use of voice in the modern day. Unlike the elite singer, most of […]
Is hypermobility an advantage or disadvantage for singers? I’ve been learning a lot of interesting things about performers and medical issues on the Performing Arts Medicine MSc program at UCL. One topic which piqued my interest and gave me an ah-ha moment was that of hypermobility aka double-jointedness. This condition can be an advantage for some […]
Good vocal care is not rocket science. Some simple and practical adjustments and considerations will ensure your voice stays in good form for the hard work you put it through when you sing. Here is my Do’s and Don’ts list for good vocal care. DO + Keep well-hydrated 1-1.5l/day. More if energy output increases or […]
Bobby McFerrin is without a doubt, one of the most accomplished vocalists of this century. He leads the way in 20th/21st Century solo vocal performance through his unique use of the voice and body, combined with highly skilled musicality and improvisation. His style transcends genres, being equally comfortable and accomplished in classical, popular, folk and […]
I can recall the first time I experienced stage fright, as clear as if it was yesterday. I went to an audition for a chorus part in a professional musical theatre production of The Student Prince. I step on stage feeling quietly confident and started to sing. About 4 or 5 bars in my knees […]
Good voice care is the key to singing longevity. Most vocal threats are within our control, but some may require medical intervention. This article will look at voice care factors within our control. There are numerous things that can interfere with the efficiency and function of your vocal folds. Some interferences come from within, and […]
I was very sad to hear of Whitney Houston’s death last month. She possessed an extraordinary voice that appeared to have no limitations, her vocal style influenced thousands of singers of my generation and since. Unlike many chart singers of today, Whitney cut her teeth as a working singer before hitting the big time. She worked […]
I am very fortunate to get to work with some amazingly talented artists. Andrew Roachford (Cuddly Toy, Family Man) is no exception. Here Andrew tells us how he uses vocal training to help him in his career. How long have you been singing for? AR: I have ben singing since I was around 8 years […]
A group of performers and I have been working hard in The Performer’s Edge course. We were all so amazed this week to find we had come to the 10th and final class so soon. We all agreed it had been a great journey. We’ve all grown and everyone said they were walking away with […]
