are all proven to positively impact the way our voices function .
2 . Be mindful of your voice use , both when you sing and when you speak . We use the same voice for singing as well as speaking . As a result , vocal fatigue happens not only when we sing , but also when we talk — especially when we talk for long periods of time , or at a higher volume than necessary , or at a pitch that is either too high or too low than what is optimal . Be mindful of how much , how long , or how hard you are using your voice throughout the day and try to “ budget ” your voice in a way that supports your singing needs .
3 . Don ’ t skip your vocal warm-up — even on days when you don ’ t have to sing . We use our voices all day long , even if we ’ re not singing at rehearsal or at church . Vocal warm-ups can do a world of good in preventing vocal fatigue and injury and can also improve vocal function when applied well . Some vocal warm-ups include lip trills , straw phonation , singing on an “ MMM ” consonant , or even gargling .
4 . If you have the means , invest in vocal training . Not everyone has the ability to do so , but even taking one lesson with a skilled vocal instructor can equip a singer with tools and exercises that are tailored to their vocal needs and that they can use for several weeks at a time .
SUMMING IT UP The singer ’ s instrument is the voice . Let ’ s care for and cultivate our voices like we ’ re playing for keeps . After all , our voices are not just instruments we play from week to week — our voices are a part of us , accompanying us every day , throughout our lives .
Renee Maranan Renee is an acclaimed vocal instructor , voice teacher trainer , and life coach . She has been teaching voice for over 20 years and works with singers , vocal instructors , and performers from all over the world . For more vocal help , visit
www . ReneeMaranan . com follow her on Instagram @ reneemaranan