How Playing Woodwind and Brass Instruments Can Enhance Your Singing
As someone who enjoys playing the trumpet, I often find myself thinking about how my experience can benefit other areas of music, particularly singing. It’s interesting to explore the overlaps between playing woodwind and brass instruments and the discipline of singing. In this article, we will delve into the breath support, musical skills, and overall benefits of incorporating woodwind and brass playing into your singing practice.
Breath Support for Singers and Brass Players
Despite common misconceptions, the diaphragm—responsible for inhalation—does play a crucial role in exhalation for both singers and brass players. The statement that 'diaphragm support is a misnomer since the diaphragm is only for inhale' is not entirely accurate. The respiratory system is a continuous process, and the diaphragm is involved in both inhalation and exhalation. For brass players, a solid foundation in breath support is essential to maintain control over the instrument, and it can transfer seamlessly to singing, enhancing vocal control and support.
When I played trumpet, my primary focus was on sustaining notes in the upper register, which required a significant amount of breath support from my abdominal and lower back muscles. This same breath management technique is crucial for singers. By incorporating regular trumpet practice into my vocal routine, I noticed improvements in my ability to project and sustain my voice, making me a more confident and effective singer.
Transferring Musicianship Skills
Playing a woodwind or brass instrument doesn't just benefit your breath support; it also greatly enhances your overall musicianship. When you play an instrument, you are constantly engaged in reading music, interpreting dynamics and articulations, phrasing, and working with an ensemble. These skills are invaluable when it comes to singing.
Music Reading Skills: Reading and interpreting notation is a critical skill for any musician. Whether you are a brass player or a singer, the ability to read music accurately and quickly is crucial. Regularly engaging with sheet music can help you develop this skill, making it easier to navigate complex vocal parts and performances.
Interpretation and Phrasing: Brass players often work closely with conductors and other musicians to interpret and phrase their part. This experience can greatly improve your ability to shape and interpret vocal lines, giving your singing more expression and emotional depth. Learning to take ownership of a piece and express its intended meaning through your voice is a vital skill for every singer.
Working with an Ensemble: Participating in ensembles as a woodwind or brass player teaches you to listen, communicate, and work collaboratively. These skills are directly transferable to singing, where communication with other voices is key to creating a harmonious and effective performance. The discipline of ensemble work can help you stay aligned with your fellow singers and contribute positively to the overall sound.
Enhancing Vocal Control and Dynamics
One of the most significant benefits of incorporating brass playing into your singing routine is the improvement in vocal control and dynamics. Trumpet playing requires precise control over air flow, which translates to better control over breath support and tone in singing. The ability to modulate dynamics, from pianissimo to fortissimo, is a crucial aspect of both brass playing and singing.
Proper Vibrato: Brass players often work on developing a consistent and controlled vibrato, which can be applied to singing to add warmth and depth to the voice. A well-developed vibrato can make your singing more expressive and engaging, especially in classical or opera styles. The technique of adding vibrato to singing can be refined through regular practice on woodwind or brass instruments.
Opening the Throat: A common issue faced by singers is a closed throat or tension in the vocal mechanism. Brass playing, particularly in the middle and lower registers, can help you develop a more open throat and relaxed jaw, which is essential for clear and projecting vocal production. By regularly practicing with the correct embouchure and breathing technique, you can improve your vocal range and comfort.
Conclusion
Playing woodwind or brass instruments can significantly enhance your singing skills. Whether it’s improving breath support, enhancing musical skills, or developing proper techniques, the benefits are numerous. Incorporating these practices into your routine can elevate your singing to new heights, making you a more versatile and effective musician. So, whether you’re a brass player or an aspiring singer, there’s a lot to gain from exploring the intersection of these musical disciplines.