Explore the Michelle Ostrove Blog
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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The primary reason for a voice crack is a disruption in the way your vocal cords (vocal folds) come together when producing sound. The vocal cords are muscles that vibrate as air passes through them to create sound. When they don’t meet properly, or if the tension is too high or low, the result can be an unexpected “crack” in the sound. Conclusion While it’s completely normal to experience a voice crack now and then, consistent cracking can indicate that…
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Singing is a deeply personal and emotional experience. Whether you sing for fun, in a choir, or as a professional, receiving feedback can feel intimidating. But feedback is one of the most powerful tools for growth. Learning to embrace it with an open mind can transform your voice and confidence. Shift Your Mindset: Feedback is a Gift I love the statement “feedback is a gift,” instead of seeing feedback as criticism, view it as a gift for improvement. Even professional…
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Have you ever watched a professional singer perform live, you may have noticed small earpiece in their ear. It is called in-ear monitor (IEM), and it plays a crucial role in enhancing a singer’s performance. The IEM can be in one or both ears. Whether you are an aspiring vocalist or a seasoned performer, understanding what in-ears are and how they benefit singers can improve your stage experience significantly. Why Do Singers Use In-Ear Monitors? There are several key reasons…
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Tongue tension is a common issue for singers, often leading to strained vocals, limited range, and reduced clarity. Learning to manage and reduce tongue tension can significantly improve your vocal performance and overall comfort while singing. Here’s a guide to understanding and addressing this challenge. What Causes Tongue Tension Tongue tension occurs when the muscles of the tongue become overly tight during singing. This can happen for several reasons: Techniques To Reduce Tongue Tension Reducing tongue tension requires a combination…
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You’re minding your own business when suddenly, a tune starts playing in your head on repeat. It could be a catchy chorus, a jIngle, or even a song you haven’t heard in years. This phenomenon, often called an “earworm” is both fascinating and frustrating. But why does it happen? Let’s explore the science and psychology behind why certain songs stick in our minds. What Are Earworms? Earworms, also known as involuntary musical imagery (INMI) are snippets of music that play…
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Lip syncing, the practice of miming along to a pre-recorded track during a performance, is a common yet controversial topic in the music industry. While some see it as a betrayal of authenticity, others recognize its practical and artistic purposes. So, why do singers lip sync? Let’s explore the reasons behind this practice. Ensuring Consistent Quality One of the primary reasons singer’s lip sync is to ensure a high-quality performance, especially in high-stakes settings like televised events or large scale…
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Have you ever noticed that your voice sounds deeper and raspier when you first wake up? This phenomenon is common and has a scientific explanation rooted in the physiology of your vocal cords and the effects of sleep. The Science Behind Morning Voice Your voice is produced by the vibration of your vocal cords, which are located in your larynx (voice box). Several factors contribute to why your voice sounds lower in the morning: Tips to Reduce Morning Voice If…
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