When starting out as a singer there are a few important things to keep in mind before hiring a vocal couch. Whether you hire one or not you need to consider some vocal training exercises and a good daily practice routine, but if you choose to proceed on your own there will be no one to stop you from committing grave singing mistakes. It is therefore especially important for you to know how to keep your voice safe and free from unnecessary strain during practice.

Prior to singing practice you should, of course, make sure you are well-rested and hydrated. Getting enough sleep at night is the key to the former, whereas water beats all other beverages on the latter point. Be sure to avoid food or drinks that affect your voice, such as caffeine, alcohol and spicy cuisine.

When you practice you should always start out with breathing exercises. There is a greater risk of injury while you are singing if you do not breathe deeply enough, so choose techniques that focuses on a deep and even breathing rhythm. As you are practising your breathing, try to relax your upper body. Tension in this part of your physique will lessen the power of your voice and may even cause hoarseness that can get lead to serious vocal cord damage over time. As tension in your upper body may also lead to injury to the vocal organs you should follow up with a few vocal and physical exercises to loosen up your shoulders, neck and throat. That done you are ready to proceed with your singing practice.

Focus on shorter and more frequent practice sessions to begin with. Not only will it spare your voice and give it ample opportunity to recover, but it will also lead to speedier improvement. The length and frequency of practice should depend on your level, as naturally the higher you have already climbed the more you need to practice to improve. Note that while there is no danger to longer sessions if you are an experienced and regular singer, you still cannot carry on for too long without increasing the risk of injury.

Best Wishes

Steve