Voice & Swallowing

It’s a common lament among singers: you have a number of performances coming up, but your voice is starting to get raspy. Should you sing if your voice is getting hoarse?

The holidays are right around the corner, and if you’re a singer that means you’ll not only be performing a lot, but you’ll probably be talking a lot more at parties. However, that much use could put a strain on your voice. What can you do to protect your voice and keep it healthy not just during the holidays, but into the new year, too?

Thanksgiving is the start of the holiday season, and what better way to start off a season of feasting and parties than with a holiday dedicated to eating? Since you’re going to be swallowing a lot of food over the next month and a half, now is a good time to learn about swallowing difficulties and what might cause them.

School will soon be back in session. Whether you are a voice, music, or theater teacher, theater director, or a student singer who has had the summer off, it is a good idea to start preparing your voice now for the increased demand that comes with the return of the school year. Here are some things to consider.

Even with attention to good vocal hygiene, if you have a vocally demanding job you may still find yourself with hoarseness. What are some common hoarseness-causing voice disorders, and when should you see a doctor about them?

Exercising your voice, resting it at the appropriate times and not overusing it, avoiding acid reflux, and treating your allergies are all good ways to keep your voice healthy and strong. Just as important as all of that, though, is knowing proper breathing techniques. Breathing through your nose has many benefits, especially if you’re preparing for a major singing engagement.