Breath Support in Singing: Debunking Myths and Insights from a 50-Year Career
As a professional singer with over 50 years of experience and a professional vocal coach since 1995, I often come across vocalists who struggle with breath support. However, my extensive experience suggests that issues in breath support are usually not the primary concerns. Instead, the focus often lies in the functional limitations of the laryngeal muscles.
Understanding Breath Support
The term "breath support" can be misleading without proper context. It is often mistakenly used to describe a specific technique or posture that a singer should adopt to ensure a consistent and powerful sound. However, the concept of breath support is more complex than it may seem, and it should not be solely attributed to a particular support mechanism.
For a more scientific and detailed understanding, one might refer to works such as The Structure of Singing by Richard Miller, which provides comprehensive explanations and references to medical studies. Seth Riggs even praised Richard Miller as one of the most inspirational pedagogues he had ever met, highlighting the importance of his contributions to the field.
Types of Breath Management in Singing
Singers can be categorized based on their breath management skills. Some over-breathe, which can cause tension and imbalance, while others under-breathe, leading to insufficient air supply. Additionally, some singers force and strain, while others are relaxed and exhibit full range control and artistic expression.
When it comes to breath support, the term "pressure" is often used. However, this pressure is not always necessary unless there are specific anatomical or physiological issues. For instance, excessive air pressure might be required if a singer hyper-adducts their vocal folds or has difficulty with laryngeal elevation during high-pitched vowels. Such issues are quite common and may require specific vocal exercises to address.
Beyond Abdominal Muscle Tension
It’s important to note that the idea of abdominal muscle tension as a form of support is a misconception. While the abdominal muscles do play a role in the overall stability of the core during singing, they should not be the sole focus of breath support. Excessive tension in the abdomen can lead to vocal strain and poor sound production.
Case Studies and Real-Life Experiences
One memorable case involved a male singer who struggled with bad breath. Through a collaborative effort, we discovered that the issue was driven more by dental problems than insufficient breath support. Two visits to the dentist and a nightly breath mouth rinse effectively resolved the problem, allowing him to achieve more success both here and in the United States.
When evaluating a singer, I prioritize the quality of the tonal production. A well-supported tone by the breath is a key prerequisite for a great singer. However, it is essential to address the underlying issues rather than focusing singularly on breath management techniques.
Each singer is unique, and addressing their specific needs requires a tailored approach. Sometimes, it might be as simple as a dental issue, while other times, it could involve more complex vocal anatomical or physiological challenges.
Conclusion
Breath support is a multifaceted aspect of singing, and while it is important, it should not be the sole focus. By understanding the nuances and addressing the underlying issues, vocal coaches and singers can work together to achieve optimal tone and performance.
Resources for Further Reading
The Structure of Singing by Richard Miller - [Purchase Link] On the Art of Singing by Richard Miller - [Free Download Link]For further insights and practical advice, explore these recommended reading materials.
About the Author
This article was written by a professional singer with over 50 years of experience and a vocal coach since 1995. With a deep understanding of vocal techniques and a passion for helping aspiring singers, the author offers valuable insights into the world of singing.
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