Vocal Warm-Up Exercises
TAKE CARE OF YOUR VOICE!!!
If you have ever sung then you are familiar with vocal warm-up exercises. Why are these important? These are important because your voice is the most important instrument that you have and you don't want to strain or damage it. Also moderate milk products, sugar and chocolate to help eliminate mucus build-up. You would never start exercising your body without stretching, would you? Just like your arms and legs need stretching so do your vocal chords. I use vocal warmup exercises as if I were about to sing. Below are some of the warm-ups I use as well as a video demonstration.
Raspberries
I called these Raspberries. To do this exercise just blow through mouth and let the air move over your lips. Much like a baby does except you don't want to spit on anyone.
Vocal Fry
This is one of the best exercises that singers use and I have found it helpful for voice overs. It's that little gutteral sound that is made in the back of the throat almost like a growl. Look at the video for a demonstration.
Neck & Head Stretches
Just like the name stretch your neck and head several different ways so that you feel relaxed. I also point my head up as if my chin is trying to touch the ceiling then I move my jaw back and forth and open and close my mouth. It's easier to look at the video.
Yawning & Tongue Stretches
Yawning is also THE best way to stretch your vocal chords. It opens wide your larynx (back of throat) and stretches is wide making you also relax. I also do these silly tongue stretches that look crazy but really help. Stick your tongue all the way out and stretch is from one side of your mouth the the other.
Health Voice
Taking care of your voice is one of the most important things you can do because your voice is your business or money maker. In this video I explain a few key things that will help in keeping a healthy voice.