Common Mistakes & Fixes
Mistake 1: Tensing the Neck on Long Phrases
What This Mistake Looks Like
Many singers unknowingly tighten the neck muscles when holding long notes. Signs include visible neck veins, jaw tension, lifted shoulders, and a shaky tone.
Why It Happens
This is caused by weak breath support, throat pushing, or forcing airflow using the neck instead of the diaphragm.
Why It’s a Problem
Neck tension blocks airflow, reduces tone quality, causes strain, and may lead to fatigue.
Fix: Keep the Jaw Loose & Breathe Into the Rib Cage
Keep the jaw relaxed, release shoulder tension, breathe into the rib cage, and support airflow from the diaphragm—not the throat.
Practice Tip
Place one hand on your stomach and one on your ribs. If the neck moves, you’re doing it wrong. If the ribs widen, you're supporting correctly.
Mistake 2: Running Out of Breath Mid-Line
What This Mistake Looks Like
The singer starts strong but loses air by the middle of the phrase, ending weakly or breathlessly.
Why It Happens
This happens because airflow is released too fast, support is weak, or the mouth is overly open.
Why It’s a Problem
This causes uneven tone, pitch instability, and vocal strain.
Fix: Slow Down Airflow Using the "Sss" Control
Take a full breath and release it slowly using a steady “Sss” sound. This trains the diaphragm to release air steadily and prevents breath loss.
Practice Tip
Hold the “Sss” for 20–30 seconds. If the airflow shakes, you're pushing too hard.
Back