Explore the Michelle Ostrove Blog
Music has long been recognized as a powerful force capable of evoking emotions, enhancing moods, and even shaping cultural identities. However, beyond its entertainment value, music and more specifically, sound frequencies, possess profound healing properties that can positively impact mental, emotional, and physical well-being. The ancient practice of sound healing is now being validated by modern science, revealing the intricate ways in which frequencies influence the human body and mind. The Science Behind Sound Healing At its core, sound is…
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Repetition is one of the most fundamental and powerful tools in music. Whether in classical compositions, pop songs, or electronic beats, repetitive patterns create structure, familiarity, and emotional impact. From simple motifs to complex loops, repetition plays a crucial role in how we perceive and enjoy music. What Are Repetitive Patterns in Music? Repetitive patterns in music refer to recurring elements such as melodies, rhythms, chord progressions or lyrics. There patterns help establish musical themes, making songs memorable and engaging.…
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Singing is a powerful form of artistic expression, but not all singing styles are the same. Two of the most popular styles, musical theater and pop music require different vocal techniques, approaches, and performance styles. While both involve storytelling and emotion, the way singers use their voices in each genre varies greatly. If you’re a singer looking to explore both styles, understanding these differences will help you adapt your technique and deliver a performance that suits the genre. Vocal Technique:…
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Vocal pedagogy explores how the voice functions and how to train it effectively. It involves several key areas. Whether you’re a singer, a voice teacher, or someone who relies on their voice professionally (such as a speaker or actor), vocal pedagogy is essential. It provides a structured way to develop and maintain a strong, expressive, and healthy voice. If you’re interested in voice training, working with a knowledgeable vocal coach trained in vocal pedagogy can help you maximize your potential…
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Vocal pedagogy is the study of the art and science behind voice training. It combines elements of music, anatomy, acoustics, psychology, and education to help singers and speakers develop their voices efficiently and in a healthy way. Whether you are an aspiring singer, a professional vocalist, or a vocal coach, understanding vocal pedagogy is essential for mastering vocal technique and maintaining long-term vocal health. Anatomy and Physiology of the Voice To train the voice effectively, it’s important to understand how…
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Singing is a complex process that involves various parts of the body working in harmony. At the core of this process are the vocal folds (cords), which play a crucial role in sound production. Understanding what happens to your vocal folds when you sing can help you develop better vocal technique, prevent strain, and improve overall vocal health. The vocal folds are two bands of muscle and tissue located inside the larynx (voice box). When air from the lungs passes…
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Singing is both an art and a science, requiring precise control over breath, resonance and vocal placement. One of the most challenging aspects of singing is mastering vowel sounds, as they play a crucial role in tone production, clarity, and vocal ease. Some vowel sounds are naturally harder to sing than others, particularly in higher registers. Let’s look at these tricky vowel sounds and learn how to navigate them effectively. The Hardest Vowel Sounds to Sing Vowel difficulty arises from…
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Creating a practice playlist is essential for any musician or singer looking to improve their skills. A well-structured playlist can help you stay organized, focused, and motivated during practice sessions. Here’s how to curate an effective practice playlist that enhances your musical growth. Steps to Building an Effective Practice Playlist Tips for Maximizing Your Practice Sessions Conclusion A well-structured practice playlist is a valuable tool for any musician or singer. By carefully selecting and organizing songs, you can make your…
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As a singer, maintaining vocal health is crucial for performance and longevity. One common issue that singers face is coughing, which can significantly impact the throat and vocal cords. Whether causes by illness, allergies, or dryness, frequent coughing can have detrimental effects on a singer’s voice. The Impact of Coughing on the Throat and Vocal Cords Coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear the throat and airways of irritants. However, it also involves a forceful expulsion of air, which…
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Many singers notice significant changes in their voice as they age. While this can be frustrating, understanding the causes and finding ways to adapt can help you continue enjoying singing with confidence and ease. Challenges of Singing as You Get Older Why Your Voice Changes Final Thoughts If you’re experiencing vocal challenges after 40, know that you’re not alone. By understanding these changes and implementing healthy singing habits, you can continue to enjoy singing for years to come. The key…
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