Question:
When I was little I used to sing all the time and had a very wide range. Through the years, growing up, I screamed and was very loud. Now I want to know what to do to fix that. I am only 14 and really would like to continue singing. Any tips would be greatly appreciated.
Answer:
If you were really screaming, you likely overworked the vocal cords by digging too deeply into the muscle. Usually excess air is pushed against the voice creating the need for excess tension in the throat and voice to sufficiently dam the flow of air and create a tone. The sound is thick and forced, usually at a higher than average pitch. It might rely on an excessive mixture of chest resonance and limit resonance in the head. It could also make extensive use of the front resonators of the head rather than integrating and balancing the tone with the inside resonators.
What all of that means is that shifting from screaming to singing requires technical adjustment of every element of vocal production:
— There needs to be a shift away from forceful exhalation to a gently paced exhalation of a very fine stream of air. This involves engaging the ribs, stabilizing the breastbone and remaining flexible in the abdominals. It also means slowing the entire cycle of respiration and taking time on the inhalation so that the breath moves into the lowest part of the lungs without resistance.
— Phonation needs to be precisely coordinated so that it starts at the exact same moment as the exhalation and uses only enough effort to spin a fine, pure core or tone. The breath has to be evenly, steadily and finely paced through the vocal cords, which requires strong ribs and posture.
— Resonance needs to be balanced for each pitch in the range, with adjustments to amount of chest and head as well as inner and forward sensation. Humming and vowel chanting can help with this. The improved resonance will calm the mind and heart.
— Pitch needs to be lowered at first and then worked higher without stress. The position of the larynx should remain stable, just as it does when one breathes in a resting position.
— Slower tempos need to be used at first as well as lower volumes so that one can really pay attention to every aspect of production. This also calms the system and reduces the inclination to scream.
Because so much has to be adjusted and in increasingly refined ways as the pitch ascends, one really needs to work with a teacher or some other form of instruction that provides a comprehensive approach.