Debunking Common Vocal Myths: Embracing the Truth About Singing
In the world of singing, myths often circulate, causing confusion and uncertainty, especially among aspiring vocalists. As a vocal coach, I want to address these misconceptions with sincerity and grace, acknowledging that many have encountered these myths along their singing journey:
“Singers are born, not made”
I wholeheartedly disagree with this belief. While it's true that some may have a natural inclination for singing, it does not negate the fact that singing is a skill that can be learned and cultivated. Your voice, just like any other instrument, requires practice and guidance to flourish.
“Sing from the diaphragm”
I’ll be the first to admit that I am sometimes guilty of using this saying! This phrase is a well-intentioned one, but it can be misleading, especially for newer singers. When we say "sing from the diaphragm," we actually mean to be mindful of your breath and breath support. In reality, the movement of the diaphragm is mostly involuntary, and the focus should be on breath control
“Drinking tea or hot water will help you sing better”
It's a common belief that hot beverages can directly impact your vocal cords. Don’t get me wrong, I’m an avid tea drinker, especially before performances. However, it's important to clarify that what you consume passes through your esophagus, not your trachea where your vocal folds are. While tea or hot liquids can provide relief to the muscles surrounding your voice, they don't have a direct effect on your vocal folds.
“If I can't match pitch, I must be tone-deaf”
The idea of being tone-deaf can be disheartening, but it's essential to remember that it's relatively rare, found in only 4% of the world's population. Struggling with pitch matching doesn't necessarily equate to being tone-deaf, and with guidance and practice, most individuals can improve their pitch accuracy.
“Improper technique causes vocal injury”
It's true that improper technique can increase the risk of vocal injury, but we must acknowledge that the most common cause is overuse and misuse. Vocal health requires finding a balance between sound technique and avoiding excessive strain on your voice.
Understanding these common myths is a part of the journey toward becoming a more informed and confident singer. It's a journey where we dispel these myths with grace and honesty, recognizing that many have held these beliefs before. Singing is an attainable skill that can be nurtured, and the path to truth often begins with dispelling the misconceptions we've inherited along the way.