Anyone Can Sing | Preparing For Practice

“I can’t seem to find the time to practice my singing. It’s probably because I’m afraid the neighbors will hear me. I would like to be a better singer, but I can’t seem to find a place to rehearse.”

Practice is crucial if you are going to improve. It takes time to develop “muscle memory”. Just rehearsing long hours may not be the answer. You can accomplish more in a shorter time, by focusing on changing bad habits. Have your teacher give you a rehearsal goal for each week. Being aware during rehearsal is vital to improvement. Try to catch yourself when your mind wanders, and come back to your specific rehearsal goal.

Set up a portion of your room for rehearsal. You might even clear out a closet and put sound proofing foam or board on the walls, if you are worried about people hearing you. It’s good to have a full-length mirror to give you visual feedback. (Are your shoulders tight? Is your mouth open enough on “ah” vowel sounds? Are you scowling with your forehead muscles? Are you sticking your neck too far forward? Etc.) For some people, a tape recorder is good for documenting your improvement. Try not to compare your sound to a professional recording. Recording your voice can be depressing if you don’t keep it in perspective.

You might talk to neighbors to ask if your rehearsal is bothering them, or what times would be most convenient for them for you to practice.

The car is where many people sing, but it is not an ideal place to rehearse. Sitting crouched behind the wheel is not great for breath support. Some people also tend to tighten the neck and shoulders when they drive. And you can’t (or shouldn’t) concentrate on changing vocal habits while driving.

Other options are taking a daily walk and rehearsing. If you use a portable tape recorder, use one with a speaker. Headphones will keep you from hearing yourself properly. Also consider asking a church if you can use a room to occasionally rehearse. Maybe for a modest fee they will find a room with a piano on a regular basis. Try going to a Karaoke bar weekly to help get over your fear of singing in front of people. Maybe that will make it easier for you to rehearse regularly at home.