AVOID FORCING THE NOTE

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 good singer can hold notes for a long time. Longer does not mean better. A singer should concentrate on proper breathing and comfortable vocal coordination. If your throat is strained or hurts you are not doing it correctly.

Balance Is The Key

There are five important factors for sustaining a note: breath/diaphragm support, vocal fold coordination, resonance, relaxed articulators, and proper posture. Executing a bigger inhale does not mean holding a note longer. It’s all about controlling the exhale. Think of your exhale as a consistent steady stream of air.

Before you run out of air, close out the word. A controlled release of the note sounds better than attempting to squeeze out more sound at the end.

Practice

Start with your comfort level, maybe shorter durations of sustaining a note. After holding a note for a few seconds, release the note cleanly. When you feel ready, gradually increase the duration.

Focus on:

• A relaxed throat
• Steady breath
• A consistent tone
• Comfortable volume
• A smooth release

Listen To Your Body

When sustaining a note, you feel any pain, burning, discomfort or experience hoarseness…stop! Do not try to power through it. You should discuss this with an experienced vocal coach.

Letting Go

Great singers know when to hold a note, release a note, and when to let the sound breathe. So, instead of pushing to hold a note, work on controlling the note in a steady controlled way. Build your breath and diaphragm support, work on vocal technique, release all tension, and know your limitations.