Explore the Michelle Ostrove Blog
Sliding up to a note should not be a normal practice, but it is used as a stylistic choice for some singers. Sliding up to the note is also called portamento or a vocal glide, is a vocal choice that can add emotion, character, and smoothness to your singing. However, it requires control and practice to ensure it enhances your performance rather than distracting from it. Here is a guide to mastering this vocal technique: Understand The Purpose of Sliding…
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Whether you’re a singer, teacher, public speaker, or someone who uses their voice extensively, vocal strain can become a common and frustrating issue. Overusing or misusing your voice can lead to discomfort, hoarseness, and even long-term damage is not properly addressed. The good news is that vocal strain can often be relieved and prevented with a few simple practices and lifestyle adjustments. In this blog, we’ll explore effective ways to care for your voice and relieve vocal strain. Hydrate, Hydrate,…
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Singing is a skill that combines technique, practice and passion. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced vocalist looking to refine your craft, there’s always room for growth. This guide will help you unlock your vocal potential with practical tips for improving your singing. Focus on Breathing Techniques Breathing is the foundation of good singing. Proper breath control allows you to sustain notes, sing with power, and avoid vocal strain. Warm Up Your Voice Vocal warm-ups are essential for flexibility…
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Vocal runs are those quick, melodic sequences of notes often used in genres like R&B, gospel and pop to showcase vocal agility and emotional expression. While they sound complex, mastering them is achievable with practice and technique. Here’s how to sing a vocal run, broken down into manageable steps. What is a Vocal Run? A vocal run involves singing a series of notes quickly and smoothly. Unlike vibrato, which involves oscillation between two pitches, runs are deliberate sequence of notes…
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Resonance disorders are a fascinating yet complex subset of singing that can significantly impact a performance. These conditions arise from abnormalities in the way sound resonates in the oral and nasal cavities while singing. This affects voice quality and intelligibility. This blog will look at the causes and treatments. Common Causes of Resonance Disorders in Singers Diagnosing Resonance Issus in Singers Singers who suspect a resonance disorder should seek a multidisciplinary evaluation: Overcoming Resonance Challenges Conclusion Resonance disorders can be…
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Resonance is the lifeblood of a singer’s voice. It gives vocal tones their richness, clarity, and emotional depth. But what happens when resonance is disrupted? Resonance disorders can significantly affect a singer’s ability to produce clear and harmonious sounds, limiting vocal performance and expression. This blog dives into how resonance disorders impact singing and their causes. What is Vocal Resonance in Singing? In singing, resonance refers to the amplification and enrichment of sound as it travels through the vocal tract.…
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When singers talk about onset, they’re referring to the way a note begins, the precise moment when breath and vocal cords work together to create sound. A perfect onset is the gold standard for vocal technique. It’s clean, effortless, and balanced, enabling you to produce a resonant tone that sets the stage for the rest of your phrasing. Focus On Breath Support The foundation of a perfect onset lies in proper breath support. Practice diaphragmatic breathing to ensure a steady…
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Achieving the right onset when you sing, the moment when your vocal cords engage and sound begins, can make a world of difference in how your voice resonates and connects with your audience. Perfect onset is a hallmark of skilled vocal technique, enabling you to sing with clarity, control, and emotional impact. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned performer, understanding and mastering this aspect of singing can elevate your artistry. What Is Vocal Onset? Vocal onset refers to how…
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Singing techniques are the foundation of vocal mastery, offering singers tools to develop their voices, express emotions and perform with confidence. Each approach has its history, philosophy and application, catering to different vocal goals and styles. Here’s a closer look at three popular singing techniques, Bel Canto, Estill Voice Training and Speech Level Singing. Bel Canto Technique Bel Canto, means “beautiful singing” in Italian, originating in the 17th and 18th century during the rise of opera. This technique emphasizes vocal…
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Voice training is an essential journey for anyone looking to develop their voice, whether for speaking, singing, acting or professional communication. The type of training you pursue depends on your goals, natural vocal abilities, and interests. Let’s explore the diverse types of voice training and how they can benefit you. Classical Voice Training Classical voice training is rooted in centuries-old techniques designed to create powerful, versatile voices. Ideal for opera singers and those who perform art songs or sacred music.…
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