There are many schools of thought on how to increase vocal range. Experiment with them if you want to find the right one for you, but stick to these rules if you want to lead your voice to a healthy song that allows you maximum extension.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: From Inside to Outside
Step 1. Lower the larynx
This is where the vocal cords are located; it is the sounding board of the voice. When relaxed, she is in the best position for singing. Unfortunately, when we sing and move towards higher notes, it tends to go up.
- Relaxing the "swallowing muscles" is a first step in preventing an elevation of the larynx. If that's not enough, you can start by making an owl-like sound, which will also help keep your larynx down. Finally, even opening the vowels too much (like smiling) can push the larynx upwards, so on the contrary, try to emit the more closed vowels.
- Put your hand on your throat and feel the larynx. Move your tongue as far back as possible; you should feel a retreat. Voluntarily try to hold your larynx down as you move your tongue and mouth; it can be difficult at first, but with a few minutes of practice you will get it back down.
Step 2. Breathe through the diaphragm
Most people have a bad habit of breathing with the top of their lungs. Place a hand on your stomach and watch it move up and down. As you sing, it should expand and contract, not your chest.
Go ahead, sing while lying down! Put a book on your chest and don't move it. It's a way to visually remind you that you should be breathing with your diaphragm
Step 3. Experiment with the sound of vowels
Each voice has one or two unique sounds that make it easier to hit the high notes. When you warm up, experiment with different ones.
Step 4. Do warm-up exercises
It is absolutely mandatory for healthy singing and for developing extension. Everyone has their favorite exercises and what works best for them. Work through a handful of exercises to determine which one is best for you.
- Start at the lowest point of your range, and vocalize as you go up.
- At the higher limits of your range, suddenly stop breathing by emitting a "hup" and releasing a siren-like sound ("mo"). Go higher and higher from time to time.
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Start on a lower note by making a tuba sound, go up an octave and release downward with the "auu" sound to the starting note (you can do this with an arpeggio if you wish).
Remember to keep your mouth, your lips, your whole body ready for optimal warm-up
Step 5. Don't stress the vocal cords
If your voice is telling you that you are going too high, listen to it. Singing should be natural; if you have to push, the sound will be forced.
If you feel pain, rest. You can start over again within hours if you have to. The vocal cords are like any other muscle - they need time to get used to the work you put them through
Method 2 of 2: From Outside to Inside
Step 1. Drink some water
A lot, a lot of water. Being well hydrated is the key to maintaining vocal health.
- Avoid cold water. Tension your vocal cords when they need to be relaxed to get to the high notes. Warm water is the best solution.
- Milk weighs down the vocal cords. You may think it's a good thing to drink, but it's not good for your voice.
- If you feel tension, don't drink too hot liquids. Lukewarm tea (with a little honey is fine); liquids with a lot of water, at room temperature, are the best solution.
Step 2. Get into proper posture
You know those girls you see in films set in the Victorian era? Not a bad way to start.
- If there is a backrest on your chair, don't use it. Keep your back straight and your arms relaxed.
- Don't lean on your stomach. Breathe with that, remember ?!
- Relax your body as much as you can. Relaxing your voluntary muscles makes it easier for even your "less voluntary" muscles to relax.
Step 3. Use your arms
When you begin to feel that you cannot reach it with your voice, help yourself with your body. You will be surprised at how much body movements can help.
- Start with your arm on your side at the beginning of the "siren" and circle as you sing, reaching maximum height simultaneously both physically and vocally.
- Imagine throwing a Frisbee when doing a treble or warm-up drills on high notes.
- Some teachers argue that you literally have to "push" down when doing warm-up vocals and dealing with critical vocal passages. The idea is that by pushing down with your hands you will remember to keep the larynx down.
Step 4. Find yourself a singing teacher
The guidance of a professional will simply be the fastest way to get the results you seek.
Ask your potential teacher questions about the method used, the techniques he uses, and what genres of music he will teach you to begin with. Some teachers will be able to offer you some very pop pieces and others, instead of classical pieces; still others a happy middle ground
Advice
- Singing correctly is the only way to preserve your voice. Otherwise you will lose it over time.
- Be patient. You won't hit higher notes right away.
Warnings
- Drinking alcohol dries your vocal cords. It is especially important to only drink water before performances.
- Not smoking. It's not good for you or your body.
