In this article: Implement these six practical tips to help enhance your vocal skills and build confidence in your voice starting today.

The world of singing can be overwhelming, filled with complex terminology, scientific facts and differing opinions. The goal of these six vocal tips is to help you focus and avoid common pitfalls when self-learning how to sing. Below are the key points to help lead a singer towards more accurate and helpful information.

1. Do Your Research

With the internet at your fingertips, there’s an abundance of resources available from YouTube tutorials to online courses and everything in-between. Understanding vocal anatomy, terminology, exercises and vocal health is a good start in giving you a strong foundation of the singing world. However, not all sources are reliable. Some may use confusing jargon or outdated techniques that could hinder your progress. To ensure that you are receiving accurate information and learning proper techniques, seek out well-researched YouTube videos, expert-led articles and reputable books. You may also consider seeking guidance from qualified and experienced voice teachers or vocal coaches who can provide personalised instruction and help you avoid developing unhealthy vocal habits. Additionally, think about joining online vocal forums or communities that discuss techniques, offer feedback and connect with other singers on the same journey.

2. Set Aside Time To Practice

Consistency is key when it comes to improving your voice. Whether it’s two minutes or two hours, setting aside time each day to practice will help build a strong routine. To maximise progress, focus on structured practice rather than just singing songs for fun. It is also worth setting realistic and attainable goals to help keep you motivated and encourage personal improvement. For example, you might aim to improve breath control over one month or master a tricky phrase in a song over one week.

A well-rounded practice session could include:

• Warm-ups (e.g. breathing exercises and gentle scales)
• Technique drills (e.g. exercises focusing on range, agility, resonance, etc.)
• Song Practice (applying techniques to songs you love)
• Cool-downs (gentle vocal exercises to relax the voice)

Additionally, singing apps can be valuable tools and add another dimension to your practice routine. As a helpful hint, look for apps that are flexible and customisable. In other words, look for apps that give you the option to change the types of warm-ups, scale exercises, tempos and keys of scales in order to accompany your unique vocal needs.

3. Sing What You Love

While vocal exercises are essential, don’t forget to enjoy singing! Balance your practice by incorporating songs that bring you joy. If you are a beginner you can start with songs that won’t be too vocally demanding in order to get you started. Traditional folk melodies or classics such as Amazing Grace and Elvis Presley’s Hound Dog for example cover a 1 octave range or less and have small intervallic leaps in the melody making them easier to sing. If you are more advanced, challenge yourself with wider vocal ranges, intricate melodies and dynamic phrasing to push your skills further. Don’t forget that you can also transpose songs into different keys in order to sing your favourite songs with more comfort and ease while finding what best suits your vocal range.

4. Listen To Your Body

The golden rule is: if it hurts, stop. Singing should never cause discomfort or pain and ignoring these signals can lead to long-term vocal damage. Instead of pushing through – pause, re-evaluate your technique and rest if needed. Signs to watch out for include:

• Strain
• Throat pain
• Feeling of tightness
• Raspy voice
• Hoarseness
• Vocal fatigue
• Loss of voice

Helpful tips: Stay hydrated, avoid excessive throat clearing and speak and sing at a comfortable volume to prevent strain.

If discomfort persists, consult a specialist such as:

• ENT (laryngologist) – checks for physical vocal issues
• Speech Pathologist – helps with vocal rehabilitation
• Physiotherapist (voice-specialised) – helps with muscular and skeletal issues relating to vocal rehabilitation
• Voice Teacher or Vocal Coach – identifies and corrects unhealthy techniques

5. Experiment With Tonal Colours And Dynamics

Your voice is an expressive instrument so don’t be afraid to explore its full range! Try experimenting with:

• Breathy tones (for a soft, airy sound)
• Powerful belts (for strong, resonant notes)
• Soft whispers (for intimacy)
• Loud call-outs (for intensity)
• Bright v.s. dark timbres (for emotional contrast)

Playing with dynamics (loud v.s. soft) naturally influences tonal colours, adding depth and emotion to your singing. This makes your performance more captivating for both you and your audience.

6. Look After Your Voice

Your voice is like any other instrument – it needs proper care to perform at its best.

• Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water to keep your vocal folds lubricated.
• Get enough rest – fatigue can negatively impact vocal control.
• Avoid harmful foods and substances – limit or eradicate caffeine, alcohol and addictive substances.
• Warm up and cool down – always prepare your voice before singing and relax it afterwards.
• Maintain appropriate training of your voice to keep it in optimal performing condition.
• Avoid screaming and whispering – it can strain your vocal folds over time.
• Consult voice health professionals (your vocology team) when needed to assist in vocal longevity – see an ENT (laryngologist), Speech Pathologist, Physiotherapist or Voice Teacher/Vocal Coach.

Key Takeaways

• Research reliable sources for accurate vocal information.
• Set aside time each day for consistent, structured, goal-specific practice.
• Balance singing exercises with songs you love to stay motivated.
• Listen to your body – if singing causes pain or discomfort, stop and re-assess. Seek professional guidance if needed.
• Experiment with different tonal colours and dynamics to enhance expression.
• Look after your voice to ensure longevity and long-term vocal health.

By implementing these tips, you will develop a stronger, healthier and more confident voice and in turn become a more aware and knowledgeable singer.