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.

RELATED LINKS

• 10 Most Common Problems of Singers
• Advice For Care Of The Voice
• Bogart-Bacall Syndrome
• “Do-it-yourself” Guide to Healthy Vocalization
• Just the FAQ’s
• Medicine in the Vocal Arts
• Prescribed Medications and Their Effects on Voice and Speech
• Survival Tips for Choral Singers
• Tips to Keep You Talkin’
• Top Vocal Warmups for Singers
• Voice as a Primary Tool of Trade
• Warming up the Voice