Support for singing refers to the system of muscles that
powers the air and forces it past our vocal cords when we sing or even speak.
The muscles you choose to do this work will greatly influence the quality of
your voice. When you engage the strong muscles of your lower body, you achieve
the same desirable qualities we hear on the radio every day in our favorite
singers.
The voice qualities generally considered to be assets to
successful singers, are described as: rich, full, mellow, soothing, warm,
clear, precise, commanding, edgy, in control, and sincere When these qualities
are found present in a singing voice, chances are good that it has a lot to do
with support.
The one and only sign I have posted in my voice studio
reads: IT'S THE SUPPORT, STUPID. The sign is there to remind not only my
students, but also myself, that if the support isn't right, nothing works well
for a singer. When the support is in place and working, at least a singer will
have a shot at producing a good tone and good intonation.
This all ties in with the breathing. I frequently reference
how important I feel support is to good singing. And, good low abdominal
breathing is imperative for good low abdominal support. You must learn to
target your sound towards your lower abdominals. Now, I realize there are no
actual lungs down there but it feels like there are. This is where your
imagination comes into play. Wherever you put the air in your body is where
you will press to push it out to make a sound.
If instead, you breathe high into your shoulders and power
your voice from the upper body, shoulders, neck, and throat, you wind up with a
voice that may be perceived as: nasally, thin, shallow, whiney, grating,
squeaky, whispery, raspy, pinched and insincere. This can be deadly for a
performing singer.
Breathing and support work hand in hand. Don't forget; whichever
part of the body you direct the air into is where you will apply pressure to
force it out when you sing. It’s easy to understand why it’s so important
to let your air flow into the lower part of your body. Applying more lower-body
strength will give your voice a richer, fuller sound.
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Nashville
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