Students often ask me, “Why do I have to sing with good posture?”
The biggest reasons I have come up with are as follows:
- Good posture allows for a swift, easy, and silent inhalation.
- It allows the larynx to begin in a relaxed, neutral position free of tension and in a speech-like state.
- Singing with good posture allows the sound to travel more freely, beautifully, and directly to the listener.
- You look confident when singing. (and we all know how you like to look good!)
Below are some simple tips for good posture:
- Stand with feet shoulders-width apart. (make sure it feels comfortable)
- Weight should be slightly forward on the balls of your feet (this is a more energetic position for singing).
- Knees slightly bent (this prevents loss of blood flow, which in turn can cause fainting. It’s happened at Cooper so keep your knees bent!)
- Rib cage comfortably lifted.
- Shoulders relaxed slightly back and down (Lifted shoulders will cause you to take a high breath, which will in turn cause you to sing with a high larynx).
- Head should be level and loose.
- Breathe low, easy, and with a quiet inhalation (Again, this allows your larynx to start in a relaxed position).
- Music should be held at an angle so that you can see the music and the director, the director can see you, and so you can follow his cues.
In the end, all of this will help you to sing beautifully and easily.