Your inhalation is your preparation for your singing phrase, but some hidden tension might be sneaking into that breath action.
Today’s exercise will help you separate the physical action of the breath from a locking action in the soft palate.
This is a sneaky problem for lots of singers that can result in a cloudy or weak tone, so be sure to give it a try.
How to do the Swallow Breath:
1. Blow out, making tight fists.
2. When “empty”, swallow and pay attention to what the palate does – it will end in a released, flexible position.
3. Release the fists and let the air come back into your body, paying attention to what the palate does – it might want to pull back!
4. Repeat, leaving the palate released as you let the air in.
If you want to know how to lift the palate the RIGHT way, check out this video on Yawn Space vs. Apple Bite:
And if you’re wondering how to incorporate exercises like these into your warm-up routine, check out The Practice Manual. I’ve created 11 custom routines for every singer’s vocal situation, plus a template for designing your own!
Thanks for practicing!
