To learn the basics of one technique, you can access
"Baby Steps To Better Breathing," which was broadcast on NPR. The article and audio version versions are located at
So we all know we have to breathe in order to sustain ourselves, just like eating. But do we really know how to breathe, and do we breathe properly?
As an opera singer, my work requires deep breathing to release full, rich and round sounds. Singing is my passion. I love to sing. The more I study singing, the more I notice how crucial my daily activity around breathing is so that I can sing at my potential.
Can’t it be easier than this? Why can’t we just open our mouths and have the perfect resonance and air capacity? Maybe some singers can. For me, I have to stretch my voice before I even get started. Because I am by nature a high-energy person, I have noticed that my energy can become scattered among my many interests and activities. This affects my ability to breathe. So I am constantly practicing focus. I also find myself holding my breath and then not having enough air to release through my whole body.
If you find yourself doing these things—forgetting to stretch your voice, scattering your energy, losing focus, holding your breath instead of breathing deeply—stop. Sing again after you have created the best space in your throat and your mind to accomplish a beautiful sound.
