It doesn't necessarily mean that you want to end up on the Metropolitan Opera stage (although, fantastic if you DO!). You can want to make quicker progress just for YOU, or because you like doing gigs here or there...or you sing in your local choir....
But if you're serious about your singing voice whether it's for personal or professional reasons, the truth is ya gotta put in the time!
Once a week of some light vocalizing is not going to cut it. But, 2 hours every day can be overkill as well.
Here's what I suggest you start out with, and then you can adjust from here: start with 30 minutes a day, at least four times a week.
I know, I know! That's a ballpark figure I'm throwing out there, but hear me out! I have found this amount of time is enough to keep singers engaged, motivated, and in motion with their voices but it's not too much to be intimidating. Plus, we don't want to cause burnout!
Not to mention...if a new singer overdoes it, it can cause fatigue and potential vocal damage. We want to err on the side of caution here, especially if you're new to vocal technique!
If you are a professional singer or someone that has been training for a while, you can expect to spend about an hour practicing, every day if you can (yes, it's ok to take breaks...so relax! They're necessary for various reasons).
If you are newer to vocal training and feel it's going well with the 30 minutes a day four days a week after a few weeks or so, go ahead and add a little bit more time in! Let's say ....bump it up to 45 minutes, 5 days a week.
As far as WHAT to practice? I can help you figure that out,too!
The good news is that it ain't a one-size fits all approach here. No, you don't
have to do vocal exercises if you don't want to.
Believe it or not, you can use parts of easy songs as warm ups!
I do suggest that you do a few sirens and hums and fun sounds, at least if that's the approach you're going to use.
When you practice your actual songs, start with troubleshooting. Example: go over those passages that may have a weak now note, or tricky places to breathe in. Spend time memorizing lyrics. Spend time creating the character in your song. Spend time doing some ear training drills,too. There are SO MANY options that will help you become a well-rounded, musical singer that will also make you stay....well..not bored!
Be sure to vary the order that you do things each session9 (after warming up, of course) to keep it interesting for you.
Does this all sound doable? Of course it is.....have FUN!
And if you want more fun learning the basics,
you know who to reach out to! Happy singing!
