What do you do if a singer struggles to sustain long notes?

1 Breath Support

Breath support is the foundation of sustained singing. To improve this, encourage your singer to practice diaphragmatic breathing, which involves fully engaging the diaphragm—the large muscle below the lungs. This technique allows for a larger air capacity and more controlled release of breath. Have them place a hand on their abdomen to feel the diaphragm expand and contract. With regular practice, this will become second nature, providing the steady airflow needed for those long, powerful notes.

2 Posture Check

Good posture is crucial for effective breath support. When standing, singers should align their head, neck, and spine, avoiding any stiffness. Encourage them to imagine a string pulling them up from the top of their head. This visualization helps maintain an open airway and chest cavity, allowing for optimal breath flow. Remind them to keep their shoulders relaxed and down, as tension can restrict breathing and affect the quality of their sustained notes.

3 Vocal Warm-Ups

Vocal warm-ups are essential before attempting to sustain long notes. These exercises prepare the vocal cords by gradually stretching them and increasing blood flow. Start with gentle hums and progress to scales that span their vocal range. This not only warms up the voice but also builds control and flexibility. Encourage your singer to incorporate these warm-ups into their daily routine to improve overall vocal endurance.

4 Phrasing Techniques

Understanding phrasing can significantly impact a singer's ability to sustain notes. Teach your singer to break down the song into phrases and identify where to take breaths strategically. This planning prevents unnecessary strain by ensuring they don't run out of breath mid-phrase. Additionally, practicing crescendos and decrescendos within phrases can help them learn to modulate airflow for dynamic control.

5 Mindful Practice

Mindfulness during practice can help singers become more aware of their body's signals and how they use their breath. Encourage them to focus on the sensations of singing and breathing, which can lead to better control. Recording practice sessions allows singers to listen back and assess their performance objectively, identifying areas that need improvement and recognizing progress over time.

6 Consistent Training

Consistent training is key to mastering sustained notes. Encourage your singer to practice regularly, but also to rest their voice as needed to prevent strain or injury. Remind them that progress takes time and perseverance. With dedication and the right techniques, the ability to sustain long notes will improve, leading to more confident and powerful performances.