Michelle Ostrove Vocal & Piano Studio
Holding a long note can be a struggle for a lot of singers. When you run out of air, the pitch will drop, go flat, and lose the pitch. When the note begins to drop, a singer might try pushing more or create tension in the throat. Singing a note should never be a struggle or fight. The best singers control the sound, keep their voice relaxed, have great breath and diaphragm support. A common mistake is thinking that a…
Sustaining (holding) a note may seem to be one of the simplest any singer does. It’s when a singer chooses a pitch, sings it, and holds the sound. Although there are many choices you can make to hold a note. Each of these choices creates a different melodious effect. The way in which a singer sustains the notes will affect their sound, emotional impact, dynamics, and musical expression. Learning to master these building blocks gives a singer the freedom to…
Music can sometimes seem complicated, with its melodies, rhythms, chords, and harmonies all working together. But underneath much of the music, we hear musical patterns. Musical patterns help organize sounds, create structure, and make music easier for both musicians and listeners to understand. From a simple repeated rhythm to memorable melodic phrases, patterns are everywhere in music. Learning to recognize them can improve your listening skills, musical memory, performance, and creativity. What Are Musical Patterns? A musical pattern is a…
Every time we sing or speak, there is a moment when the voice begins. That moment is called the vocal onset. Although it happens in a fraction of a second, the way we begin a note can have a major effect on vocal quality, breath control, pitch, and overall vocal health. Learning to use a balanced vocal onset helps singers produce sound efficiently without unnecessary tension. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced vocalist, understanding how to start a note…
Have you ever wondered how professional singers belt out powerful high notes without sounding strained or shouting? The secret for many vocalists isn’t simply singing louder, it’s learning to use a mixed voice. A well-developed mixed voice allows you to sing with strength, freedom, and confidence while protecting your vocal cords. Whether you sing pop, rock, country, gospel, musical theatre, or worship music, mastering your mix can transform your voice. What Is Mixed Voice? Mixed voice is a balanced coordination…
Have you ever listened to a singer whose words were so clear that every lyric felt meaningful? Great singing isn’t just about hitting the right notes, it’s also about making sure your audience understands every word you sing. That’s were enunciation comes in. The good news is that improving your enunciation can make an immediate difference in your singing. Unlike building vocal range or strength, which takes time, clear pronunciation can instantly make your performances sound more polished and professional.…
Every great singer starts somewhere. Whether you dream of performing on stage, recording your own music, or simply singing with confidence, becoming the best singer you can be is about dedication, practice, and believing in your unique voice. You don’t have to sound like anyone else, you just have to become the strongest version of yourself. Practice Consistently Like any skill, singing improves with regular practice. Set aside time each day, even if it’s only 15 to 30 minutes. Focus…
If you’ve ever taken a voice lessons, you’ve probably heard your teacher say, “use more breath support,” “engage your diaphragm,” or “control your breath.” While these phrases are common, many singers wonder what breath control actually means and why it’s so important. Breath control is one of the most fundamental skills in singing. It allows you to sing with power, stability, expression, and endurance while protecting your vocal health. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced performer, learning to manage…
When people think about singing, they often focus on the vocal cords. While the vocal cords are essential for creating sound, they are only one part of your vocal instrument. The vocal tract plays an equally important role in shaping your tone, resonance, articulation, and overall vocal quality. Understanding how your vocal tract works can help you become a more efficient, expressive, and healthy singer. What Is the Vocal Tract? The vocal tract is the series of spaces and structures…
Every singer has a unique voice, but most voices fall into a general classification known as a voice type. Understanding your voice type can help you choose songs that showcase your strengths, develop healthy vocal technique, and protect your voice from unnecessary drain. It’s important to remember that voice types are not ranking, they simply describe the natural range, tone, and tessitura (the range where your voice feels more comfortable). While training can expand your abilities, your natural voice type…