Blog
A collection of tips & resources from Sarah.
10 Remedies to Release your Tense Locked Jaw and Recover from Trismus
Ten Remedies to help Release tense, locked jaw and Recover from Trismus.
Trismus or Lockjaw is a bilateral restriction in mouth opening. It is a medical condition in which the normal motion of the mandible ( jaw) is reduced as a result of sustained, tetanic spasm of the masticatory muscles mediated by the trigeminal nerve. It causes spasms in the mastication muscles, which we use to chew. The muscles tighten and shorten, hindering the temporomandibular joint's movement. Find tips to help heal from lock jaw.
Sing the Songs of Great Musical Theatre Composers: Kander and Ebb
Find a list of amazing Kander and Ebb songs. Composer John Kander and lyricist Fred Ebb collaborated for more than forty years, one of the longest-running and most successful creative partnerships in Broadway history. Together they wrote over twenty musicals and many film scores. Their two most successful works, Cabaret and Chicago, had critically acclaimed Broadway revivals and were made into Oscar-winning films. Their work specializes in spotlighting social and political themes in period settings. Their songs are fabulous for learning voice techniques and they have an amazing variety for all types of singers.
Finding Solutions for Throat, Jaw, Tongue, and Neck Tension During Singing
Do you suffer from neck, jaw, or throat tension while singing? You are not alone. This is one of the most common issues I hear as a teacher when students enter my studio. I hope this post will help you begin to find a few solutions for your tension issues.
How to Choose the Right Song Repertoire for Your Voice
A frequently asked question in my studio is: “How should I select songs that best suit my own voice?” I am often asked to assist and guide in repertoire selections for my students.
It’s really important to keep learning new repertoire in a variety of genres. If you are consistently working on your technique and building healthy singing methods, your voice will develop optimal tonal outcomes which can be utilized in a variety of styles. Singing in different genres can increase your vocal abilities and skills. Don’t be afraid to explore. Expand your identity as a singer.
Here is a list of CRUCIAL THINGS TO CONSIDER when choosing a repertoire.
How to Manage Allergies and Colds and Find The Best Remedies for Singers
Allergy Season is frustrating for singers who are trying hard to maintain optimal vocal health. Learn ways to protect your vocal health as allergens can irritate the vocal cords, which can cause hoarseness, and the congestion from a stuffed nose or postnasal drip can make it difficult to breathe easily and hard to sing. FInd tips to minimize the effects of colds, allergies, and other thrashings on the vocal folds and larynx.
Finding Calm, Mindful Ways to Release Tension While Singing.
Are you holding TENSION and feeling STRESSED when you sing? Singing is very physical. If our bodies are holding unnecessary tension, the pathway for your authentic voice to shine will become blocked. This can leave you feeling tired or hoarse and can affect the clarity of your vocal tone. Part of learning new singing methods is to become aware of the tension in your body and use techniques to release unnecessary exertions so you can enjoy singing with freedom.
Songs about Spring for Every Genre
In every genre, there are songs about spring. Whether you are a classical singer, jazz enthusiast, musical theatre singer, an indie, country or pop performer, you can find hopeful songs about spring. Find suggestions for songs about spring for every genre.
How to Increase your Singing range.
Are you struggling to reach your high notes with balance and sustainability? Learning to realize the full potential of your biological range takes regular and consistent practice. Here are some helpful exercises to begin to increase your range.
Comedic Musical Theatre Songs for Every Voice Type
A great way to show your confidence and personality is to put a comedic song in your book of repertoire. However, finding comedic songs, in the right range and in the musical theatre cannon, can be challenging. Find suggestions for comedic musical theatre songs in every voice type.
Are you Aimlessly Practising?
Are you aimlessly practicing in a way that isn’t getting results? Do you find yourself singing through meaningless warm-ups and repertoire without making any changes or correcting any moments of vocal tension or strain? Quick Tip for Effective Singing Practise.
Warning Signs Your Vocal Health is in Danger
Is your voice becoming hoarse or raspy? Are high notes becoming difficult? Are you repeatedly clearing your throat? Is it an effort to talk? Does your throat feel strained or raw? If you are nodding your head to any of these questions you may have a voice issue. Find some TIPs to keep your voice healthy.