This is not an exhaustive treatise on developing the singing voice. There really can’t be such a thing, as each person’s vocal journey is unique and every training moment needs a flexible approach that responds to what the voice is doing in the moment.

There are many published resources that are very instructive. I recommend some of them elsewhere on this site, but it may not be possible to translate words and concepts into sound vocal technique by yourself. Consider getting help from a singing teacher who can listen and guide you through the territory.

One very important consideration is that the path to functional freedom will not always sound “good”. Old habits usually need to be broken before new ones can replace them, which creates instability. This process usually produces sounds that are not aesthetically pleasing at first, but if they are functionally healthy they will lead to a greater sense of control and artistry. I will mention that the process itself can be a great deal of fun, as it involves a lot of releasing and emotional freedom along with the vocal release.

The principles of Functional Voice Training were developed for the classical and operatic singer. They are useful for any singer who wants to improve their vocal health, range and expressive artistry, across a wide array of vocal genres. Some singing styles may seem to work against principles of dynamic registration and open-throated resonance, but any singer’s vocal health will benefit from the increased efficiency and effortlessness brought about by this approach.

I believe there are other effective systems of voice training that also create functional vocal freedom. I like this approach because it is very direct - as direct as you can be when training a living instrument that you can’t see and whose locus of control is reflexive as much as it is conscious. I also like that I can stand on the shoulders of the many pedagogical giants who came before me.

In performance, the singer’s job is about expression, interpretation and musicianship. Vocal technique needs to just happen without thinking. However, the main reason why we need to work with the body’s intelligence to access and refine our natural vocal reflexes is that it is simply the best way to develop the voice. We are working with nature, using neuromuscular resources that need the freedom to find their own preferred way of performing. The goal is a voice the singer loves using and trusts implicitly.

Thank you for reading and joining me in this conceptual exploration of voice training. Whatever your path toward your musical aspirations, I hope this resource is helpful. I am, of course, available to bring the words to life in voice training sessions. The one-on-one format is the tried-and-true method, but I am also experimenting with lessons for small groups, within the Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia. 

You can contact me HERE