Health

Vocal Hygiene

  • Avoid odd laryngeal sounds and excessive throat clearing.
  • Keep the speaking voice at a low intensity.
  • Avoid talking and singing over loud noises.
  • Blow away tension before talking or singing.
  • Rest the larynx when not using it.
  • Reduce vocal demands.
  • Avoid smoking and second hand smoke.
  • Avoid using an unhealthy voice.
  • Avoid mucosal-drying agents such as caffeine and alcohol.
  • Maintain mental health and manage stress.

Vocal Management

  • Reduce quantity of singing; fewer lessons, more use of instrumental arrangements, feature other members of the group.
  • Use monitor speakers facing the stage.
  • Discuss vocal needs with the sound technician.
  • Avoid use of chest voice at high pitch levels.
  • Rest the voice on performance days.
  • Rest between sets or scenes.
  • Arrange the music to suit your voice; change keys if necessary.
  • Pace your practicing.
  • Pace your chorale/choir singing.

SOURCE:

Speech Pathology and Audiology Department, University of Nevada-Reno School of Medicine.

 

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