Singing Tips - Breathing

Breathing for singing is very important for a successful vocal delivery.Primarily it is necessary that you are breathing properly for singing. This involves using the muscles of your diaphragm (the partition of muscles and tendons between the chest and abdominal cavity). When you inhale, the diaphragm pushes downward and contracts as the lungs fill up with air. This action enables the rib muscles to expand outward. You take this breath when you are ready to begin singing your tone. As you exhale and release your tone, your rib muscles and diaphragm begin to relax as you return to your position before the inhalation.

Let us use the song "My Heart Will Go On," (Titanic) performed by Celine Dion, as an example. When preparing to take a breath for singing, you should plan how much air you think you will need to carry you to the end of the line. (If you can, try this experiment in front of a mirror.) Inhale as you feel your rib cage expand, immediately begin thinking about how much air you "feel" you need. You may want to breathe a bit deeper at first, especially if you are a bit nervous or are a beginner. When you are ready to sing, expel as much air as needed. Be aware not to push out too much air at one time or your tone will become breathy.

"Every night in my dreams, (breathe)
I see you I feel you (breathe)
That is how I know you go on. (breathe)
Far across the distance (breathe)
And spaces between us (breathe)
You have come to show you go on. (breathe)
Near, far, wherever you are, (breathe)
I believe that the heart does go on. (breathe)
Once more you open the door, (breathe)
And you're here in my heart And my heart will go on and on.

"If you are still having difficulty with breath control try this trick. Cup one hand around your ear (as you would hold a telephone), begin to take a breath for singing and proceed to sing the song. As you begin to expel the air, listen carefully to your tone. Your attention should be on an even distribution of air throughout the phrase; with just enough air to make a smooth ending.(But you can choose where to stop or breath, if you have enough practise and want to make new challenges)

Singers Audition 2008