Big problems with my singing voice...any solutions?

Question

I came down with walking pneumonia at the beginning of April this year after having bronchitis several times a year since eighth grade (I'm now a senior). Ever since I got over the sickness, I have had trouble with losing my breath very easily when I'm singing or projecting for any significant amounts of time. I've also noticed that when I'm singing, I have two or three more breaking points in my voice (when I'm doing a siren) than I used to. My singing voice, in general, sounds really scratchy and almost strained. I'm an extremely involved and busy actor and singer with my school's theatre department, and I'm wondering...how can I build back up my voice and projecting abilities? Should I see a physician or vocal specialist? Help!

Answer 1

Yes. See a doctor immediately before doing any more extensive singing or even extended, projected speaking. It sounds like your vocal chords are very damaged, which is understandable after all that illness. Before improving your voice, you need to get a medical professional to do whatever he or she can to repair any physical damage on your chords. If they can fix some things, youre going to have to work over a period of time to build your voice and lung capacity back up to par. Sirens are a good way of smoothing over breaks, as well as other vocal warmups which should be done every time you sing. To build up breath support, try singing while you are lying down. That forces your diaphragm to work harder and build strength. Also, try breathing in deeply and letting the air out on a steady "hsss" for eight beats, sixteen beats, 24 beats, then for as long as you can. Then switch to a "ts ts ts ts," over 8, 16, 24, etc. If you visit a vocal specialist, they will probably have other suggestions that are more medically backed. I hope that you get better and are able to continue your work on stage!