Uh-oh. Cold and flu season is here, are you ready?
It's especially sucky if you're a singer/actor. You always have to be on your guard because you are the instrument.....it's harder to muddle through a performance , rehearsal or lesson if you're not feeling your best . It's not ideal for anyone else in music-say, a pianist or drummer...but it's still a little tougher!
One of the questions I get asked a lot is:
Well, you CAN.
But is it recommended? It depends.
Sometimes when your throat is seriously sore, not just irritated, it is INFLAMED.
Not only will it be super painful to vocalize while your throat is in this condition - but you risk harming yourself by putting strain on your very delicate vocal apparatus!
When anything on your body is inflamed, it's an SOS from that specific body part saying: "hey you! Let me rest! I need to repair!"
Does it suck big time when it's your THROAT of all things, and you are a singer or actor? You bet. But sometimes, ya gotta do what ya gotta do.
Now, let me also mention that when I say "sore throat" in this instance, I am talking laryngitis, or inflammation of the larynx (voice box).
There are
mild sore throats one can sing through, if necessary. For example, when you have allergies or a minor cold and have irritation rather than inflammation.
My best advice to you as far as making the call is to ask yourself this important question: "is it painful to use my voice in any way?"
If the answer is "yes", then I say it's not worth it to "push through".
Laryngitis is no joke!
However, minor colds and other ailments are common and unless you're in pain, sometimes you can and should go on.
In the meantime, you can do as much as you can as far as prevention! During fall and winter, I like to make sure I'm getting extra vitamin C.
I am also vigilant about getting quality sleep, as well as regular exercise and regular hand washing.
Although I am a tea fanatic, sadly there is no "magic" tea, but cult favorite Throat Coat Tea has slippery elm in it, which is known for its soothing qualities.
Singers, you should always be taking extra care of your instrument: YOU!
If I can help guide you in any other way, be sure to join my online school for videos and live group classes, or
schedule a private session with me now!
