Level 3 – First Practice Session

Practice Room Level 3 Level 3 - First Practice Session

LESSON SUMMARY:

This Level 3 vocal warm-up course is designed to enhance the singing abilities of experienced vocalists through a series of targeted exercises.

Starting with cross-body arm stretches, the routine focuses on releasing tension and promoting proper posture. It then transitions to semi-occluded vocal tract exercises like the puffy cheeks technique to synchronize breath and tone, followed by fast-paced tongue flexibility exercises to improve diction and agility. The session concludes with staccato arpeggios and an application of the puffy cheeks exercise to a song, encouraging consistent airflow and smooth note transitions.

Regular practice of these exercises is emphasized for optimal vocal improvement.

This course is designed for experienced singers looking to enhance their vocal performance through a structured warm-up routine. The session focuses on opening up the body, synchronizing breath and tone, improving diction and agility, and enhancing vocal flexibility and control.

Upper Body Warm-Up

  • Cross-Body Arm Stretches: Begin with stretches to release tension in the shoulders and back, promoting better posture.
    • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
    • Stretch each arm across the body, holding for a deep breath.
    • Repeat several times to ensure muscles are relaxed and ready.

Breath and Tone Synchronization

  • Puffy Cheeks Exercise: This semi-occluded vocal tract exercise helps in coordinating breath with vocal tone.
    • Inhale deeply, puff out cheeks, and exhale through a small opening in the lips while maintaining a consistent “OOH” sound.
    • Practice on a 5-note ascending and descending scale starting from C4.
    • Focus on steady airflow and maintaining puffed cheeks.

Tongue Flexibility Exercise

  • AH-EE Transition: Enhance diction and agility by moving quickly between these vowel sounds.
    • Keep the jaw still, allowing only the tongue to move.
    • Progress to a faster pace with a “YA” sound pattern on a 12321 scale.

Vocal Agility and Flexibility

  • Staccato Arpeggios: Develop control through slow and fast-paced arpeggios.
    • Begin slowly, then increase speed while keeping the jaw relaxed to maintain breath control.
    • Continue the exercise to improve vocal agility.

Application and Practice

  • Puffy Cheeks in Song: Apply the puffy cheeks technique to the song “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee,” focusing on consistent airflow and smooth transitions.
    • If preferred, apply the technique to a song of your choice.

Conclusion

This routine provides a comprehensive warm-up to prepare singers for optimal performance. Regular practice of these exercises will build consistency and improve overall vocal ability. Remember to incorporate these into your daily routine for the best results. Happy singing!

Picture of Instructor: Meghan

Instructor: Meghan

Meghan McCall is an experienced singer-actor, who has been described by The Washington Post as having “bell-like clarity and fine control” and “a radiant full-bodied voice.”

She has performed all over the world, including performances at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and more. In addition, her film roles have been featured on major networks such as NBC, Discovery Channel, and Lifetime.

Throughout her performing career, Meghan has helped many clients find their voice – whether for public speaking, singing on stage, or just for recreation.