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Technique Tuesday: Did you know ... about vocal support?

One of the trickiest concepts of vocal technique (spoken or sung) to grasp is the delicate question of ‘support’. 

What is it? I’m not fond of using that word when teaching actually, because of the picture or feeling that it can evoke. 

Usually, that word physically translates to actions like ‘grip’, ‘tense’, and ‘block’ rather than ‘release’, ‘allow’ and ‘enable’.

When you’ve got it, you’ve GOT it, and that word becomes part of the skillset, a component that is so hard to explain. Unlocking the puzzle initially, finding new ways to nudge students along the path of learning is a challenge because different ideas both mean and feel differently to each person.

The infographic below focusses on ‘Expiration’ or the ‘outbreath’.

All singers worry about how long their breath will last, often running out at peak moments of the phrase despite best efforts. Why is this? It’s because their postural alignment and understanding in relation to different abdominal muscle groups is slightly out of whack.

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Singers need flexibility in the muscles of the abdominal wall. The keyword here is flexible - PLUS a fundamental understanding of the different use of those muscles above and below the belt. 

This is where the confusion lies.

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Which muscles are we talking about? Here’s a hint: a six-pack has no place or relevance in terms of that word, ‘support’. The ultimate understanding of the function of different muscle groups and how too much muscle power can interfere with the freedom of breath-flow is really a game-changer.  

Like to learn more? Consider joining my online masterclass group for singers, Virtually Vocalise.

Not ready for that yet? Let's keep things simple. Dabble your toes a little with this useful partnership of audio and PDF resources for singers, great for building early vocal confidence and essential know-how-to skills.

Links to both are waiting for you … CLICK here for easy access.

Here's a final thought ...

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