FINDING YOUR VOCAL SOUND
"The magic you are looking for is in the work you're avoiding" - Dipen Parmar
Do The Work
As a vocal coach, the question I'm undoubtedly asked the most is "How do I find my sound? In the vast landscape of music, the answer to that question is more of a journey than a destination. It's about more than just hitting the right notes; it's about conveying emotion, authenticity, and a sense of self. I ask my students questions to drill down and find out who they are. Are you an rock singer? Or a pop singer? Sultry and brooding, or quirky and fun? Do you write your own songs? Or maybe your an amazing mimic?
Whether you're an aspiring singer-songwriter or a seasoned vocalist looking to refine your style, these tips are worth your time. It's a marathon not a sprint. Just make sure you put time and effort towards each one to see the results. 10 min each day at least!
Embrace Your Influences
I always joke with students that VERY LITTLE music theory is needed to understand singing. It basically comes down to doing an amazing impression of your favorite artists...at least at first. From there it can grown into something unique as all your influences combine. There are MANY breathing and singing techniques to help you become a great singer so if you can't do a perfect impression of Lady Gaga or Rihanna just yet...none to worry. Every singer is influenced by the music they've listened to and the artists they admire. Take the time to explore a wide range of genres and vocal styles, from blues to pop, jazz to rock. Pay attention to the singers who resonate with you on a deep level and analyze what it is about their voice that captivates you.
Take for example the song "Dance Monkey" by TONES AND I. Her sound is incredibly unique in the way she pronounces her vowels and adds a bit of vocal fry. This kind of vocal style is incredible, and it's not an accident. It's a carefully practiced and honed style.
Experiment with Technique
The biggest mistake non-musicians or novice musicians make is not understanding the amount of time going into honing the craft. The desire for immediate results holds singers back here. Don't be afraid to experiment in a safe practice space. And when at first you don't succeed, try, try, try, try, try, try, try, again!
Experimentation is key to honing your vocal sound. Try different vocal techniques, such as breath control, vibrato, and vocal dynamics, to see what feels most natural and authentic to you. I often talk about bringing vocals from the front to the back in my classes. Schedule your free consultation today. Talk like an alien and then like an opera singer. Practice with full voice as well as falsetto voice. Remember, finding your vocal sound is not about conforming to a specific technique but about discovering the unique qualities and nuances of your voice. At first, try not to judge yourself too much. In my classes part of the homework is simply listening to music and taking notes.
Connect with Your Emotions
It's hard to convey emotions of a song if you don't know what you think and feel about it. At its core, singing is about connecting emotionally with other human beings. Your vocal sound is a reflection of your innermost feelings and experiences, so don't be afraid to connect with your emotions and express them through your voice. There are huge comparisons between singing and acting on the stage. Tap into the joy, pain, love, or longing that lies within you and let it flow freely through your singing. The hardest thing here is to not cower in fear, but to tap into the fear to make you truly great. Vulnerability is a powerful tool in music, and by embracing your emotions, you can imbue your vocal sound with authenticity and depth. Fear can be a mind killer, or an aphrodisiac. Confidence is your greatest weapon against an unruly crowd.
Experiment with Vocal Effects
In today's music landscape, vocal effects and processing play a significant role in shaping vocal sound. Experiment with different effects, such as reverb, delay, and pitch correction, to add texture and dimension to your voice. I personally love authentic vocals that aren't too overproduced, but I would be remiss if I didn't bring up the use of vocal effects to make something truly unique.
Some of the time you can get the sound you're after with great performance, and if not then there are post-production tips that can help your voice. If used in the wrong way, those effects may end up being more of a crutch to your growth as an artist. It's about using a light touch, and achieving a balance within the vocal sound. Use these tools judiciously and always prioritize the integrity of your vocal sound. The goal is not to mask your voice but to enhance its natural qualities and create a sonic palette that reflects your artistic vision.
Trust Your Instincts
I say this with a grain of salt because if you haven't been trained as a singer on breathing and vocal techniques, then this can leave you feeling lost. Ultimately, finding your vocal sound is a deeply personal journey that requires trust in your own taste and your instincts. Don't be swayed by trends or external expectations; instead, stay true to your unique voice and artistic vision. Embrace imperfections and embrace the quirks and idiosyncrasies that make your voice distinctly yours. Remember, your vocal sound is not a destination but a constantly evolving expression of who you are as an artist.
Knowing how to trust your taste requires doing the work. It's all tied in together. It's one thing to be a singer in the shower or in the comfort of your car, using a weak falsetto voice (and think you're doing amazing), but as any real singer knows, stepping onto a recital or concert stage and belting vocal runs in front of an audience is quite another. There is no replacement for experience in life. Experience leads to confidence, and confidence leads to magic.
Considering some help learning how to sing?
Are you considering learning a new instrument or improving your skills on the guitar, piano, or vocals? If so, you might want to consider taking virtual private music lessons with Virtual Music Coach. Here are some benefits to keep in mind:
Convenience: Virtual private music lessons offer the convenience of learning from the comfort of your own home. No need to spend time commuting to a music school or studio.
Flexible scheduling: With virtual private music lessons, you can easily schedule lessons around your busy schedule. Whether you're a student, a working professional, or a busy parent, you can find a time that works for you.
Personalized instruction: With virtual private music lessons, you get one-on-one attention from a coach with over 25 years experience, on multiple instruments. Best of all, I won't just stare at you until you magically "get it", I'll help guide you along the path.
Growth: Working with a coach means accountability. I will be holding you accountable each week to deepening your musical understanding, improving your technique, remembering more, and understanding more completely.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, virtual private music lessons with Virtual Music Coach can help you achieve your musical goals. So why wait?
Sign up for virtual vocal lessons today and start your musical journey from the comfort of your own home.
Contact me today to schedule your first free trial lesson!
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