Changing perspectives can help solve singing problems; stepping back provides clarity while zooming in allows for detailed work, and applying this to vocal challenges can lead to effective solutions and renewed motivation.
(4-minute read time)
I once bookended the journey to visit my parents with a day at the beach to recharge my battery. Those beach visits were a phenomenal gift and supplied a powerful analogy. And I’m sure you know me by now- I love a good metaphor!!!! So here it is – When I was looking at the ocean from a lookout, higher up and further away, the waves didn’t seem very big. In fact, I was surprised there were even surfers in the water, let alone riding those minuscule waves. |
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But when I was down on the shore and walking at the water’s edge, the size of the waves as well as their power and closeness were completely different. Bigger and more present and even intimidating.
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Which view is correct? Both of them! So I can conclude that my point of view + my proximity to a situation determines how I perceive and interact with it. Therefore, changing views will change perspective. Der. I know…sometimes I need a lesson to be really spelled out to me loudly. How does this relate to singing? If you are having trouble solving a problem, change where you’re looking at it from. Intimidated and overwhelmed? Do something to gain some distance and put things back into perspective. Finding it hard to gain momentum? Perhaps draw closer to one element of the detail of the situation and get stuck into some nitty-gritty work. Here are a couple of examples: 1. Fixing a phrase that has a difficult interval or rhythmic pattern
2. Managing some throat tension
3. Changing your tone quality or colour to better suit the music genre/style
No matter what is going on with your voice, finding new ways to approach the situation, whether from the metaphorical lookout or down on the shoreline face-to-face with the waves, could bring about the shake-up you’re looking for. I’d love to hear if this analogy and thought process is useful for you! |
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Photo by Nadine Shaabana on Unsplash