3 singing myths—debunked
Starting your singing journey can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming with all the information—and misinformation—out there. As someone who is active in the voice teacher space, I see a lot of (well-intentioned) information presented to singers that, well…just isn’t quite accurate. While I truly believe each teacher does the best they can with the information that they have, I’d like to clear up some common myths about singing and voice science, so you can start your vocal journey with confidence and clarity.
Myth #1: You’re Either Born with a Good Voice or You’re Not
One of the most pervasive myths about singing is the belief that you either have natural talent or you don’t. While some people may have a natural inclination or affinity for singing, the truth is that singing is a skill that can be developed and refined with practice and training.
The Reality:
Muscle Development: Just like athletes train their muscles, singers train the muscles involved in voice production. With consistent practice, anyone can improve their vocal range, tone, and control. I’ve seen it happen so many times in my studio—where someone starts lessons with zero experience, and within six months they’ve improved their vocal technique ten-fold. It’s amazing what transformation can happen when you regularly apply the techniques we cover in lessons!
Vocal Techniques: Learning proper techniques such as breath control, pitch accuracy, and vocal resonance can significantly enhance your singing ability. Practicing these techniques regularly can result in big vocal gains.
Training and Practice: Voice lessons, vocal exercises, and regular practice can transform a “bad” singer into a good one over time. Dedication and perseverance are key!
Myth #2: Singing From the Diaphragm
You’ve probably heard the advice to “sing from your diaphragm.” While this phrase is meant to encourage proper breath support, it can be misleading and is often misunderstood.
The Reality:
Breath Support: The diaphragm is a muscle located beneath your lungs, and its main role in singing is to control airflow and support sustained notes. However, you don’t actually sing from your diaphragm; you use it to manage breath support.
Body Coordination: Effective singing involves coordinating multiple muscle groups, including the diaphragm, intercostal muscles, and abdominal muscles. Good posture and alignment also play crucial roles.
Breathing Techniques: Proper breathing techniques focus on engaging the diaphragm for steady airflow and using the ribcage and abdominal muscles to control exhalation. This provides the necessary support for powerful and sustained singing.
Myth #3: You Have to "Place Your Voice Forward" to Sound Good
Many singers are told to "place their voice forward" to achieve a better sound. While this advice aims to encourage resonance and projection, it can be misunderstood and misapplied.
The Reality:
Resonance Areas: The concept of "forward placement" refers to the sensation of vibrations in the front of your face, such as in the lips, nose, and cheekbones. However, true vocal resonance is a balanced blend of vibrations throughout the vocal tract.
Healthy Technique: Focusing too much on forward placement can lead to tension and strain. A healthy vocal technique involves relaxed and natural resonance, allowing your voice to project without force.
Voice Balance: Achieving a good sound involves balancing resonance across different areas, including the chest, throat, and nasal passages. This balance creates a rich and full tone.
Professional Guidance: Work with a vocal coach to understand how to use resonance effectively. They can help you develop a technique that promotes natural, effortless sound production.
Understanding the truths behind these common myths can set you on a path to becoming a better, more confident singer. Remember, singing is a journey that requires patience, practice, and self-discovery. By focusing on proper techniques and nurturing your unique voice, you can achieve your singing goals and enjoy the process along the way.
If you’re ready to get started on your singing journey, I’d love to connect with you. You can set up a free 30-minute trial lesson in voice with me here, and you can find out more about my Curious Singer Membership here.
