Free Singing Tips and Instruction: Master the Secrets to Singing Higher

The Quest for Higher Notes

As a vocal coach, one of the most frequent questions I receive is how to extend one's high range. This is a common concern for many singers, and understandably so. Many songs are structured to build from lower verses to powerful, high-pitched choruses. However, hitting those high notes can often result in a strained and uncomfortable sound, detracting from the overall performance. So, what can be done to improve this?

The Wizard of Oz Analogy

Remember the scene in The Wizard of Oz where the Wizard floats away in his hot-air balloon, unable to return for Dorothy because he had dropped all his sandbags? This analogy is quite fitting for singing higher notes. To ascend vocally, you need to "drop the sandbags"—in other words, reduce the weight and tension in your voice.

Understanding Vocal Weight

A common mistake singers make is trying to push their voices higher without reducing the vocal weight. This is akin to a guitarist attempting to play high notes on a low string—it’s possible, but it sounds forced and can be painful. Keeping the weight and pressure in your voice when hitting high notes can sound amateurish and may even damage your vocal cords.

Exercise: The Siren Slide

Try this exercise to help lighten your vocal weight:

1. Start Low: Begin with a note at the very bottom of your range.
2. Slide Up: Gradually slide up through your entire vocal range to the highest falsetto note you can reach. This should sound like a siren.
3. Lighten the Weight: As you ascend, lighten the weight of your sound to make it easier to rise. If your voice "clicks" at the falsetto break, don’t worry—just keep sliding higher.
4. Flip the Break: For female singers, if you hit a point where you can't go higher, you've likely reached the "break." Flip across this and continue upward. The sound may become small, breathy, or piercing, but that's okay. Just avoid straining.

Relaxing the Jaw and Throat

Repeat the siren slide exercise, but this time, pay attention to your mouth and throat. Are they opening wider or pinching shut? Is your jaw tensing? Try to relax your jaw and open your mouth and throat. This goes against the natural reflex to tighten up when singing higher notes.

• Rubber Jaw: Imagine your jaw is made of rubber.
• Loose Throat: Visualize your mouth and throat openings as very loose and pliable.

To understand the throat opening, say "ga, ga, ga" with a hard "G." Notice where the hard "G" is formed—that's the throat opening, which tends to close when singing high notes. Aim for a "yawny" feeling.

The Yawn Technique

To control the throat opening, start by taking a breath as if you are beginning to yawn. This creates a comfortable stretch at the throat opening. Singers should always breathe in this manner, as it helps maintain an open and relaxed throat.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• Vocal Range: The average vocal range for a trained singer is about 3 octaves, while some exceptional singers can reach up to 4 or even 5 octaves. (Source: Vocalist.org)
• Vocal Health: According to the National Center for Voice and Speech, nearly 30% of people will experience a voice problem at some point in their lives. (Source: NCVS)
• Professional Singers: A study by the Journal of Voice found that professional singers are more likely to experience vocal fatigue and strain due to the demands of their careers. (Source: Journal of Voice)

Conclusion

Mastering the art of singing higher notes involves understanding and reducing vocal weight, practicing specific exercises, and maintaining a relaxed jaw and throat. By incorporating these techniques, you can improve your vocal range and deliver more powerful performances without straining your voice.

For more detailed guidance and professional tips, consider consulting reputable sources like Vocalist.org and the National Center for Voice and Speech.

By following these expert tips and exercises, you can unlock the full potential of your voice and sing higher notes with ease and confidence.