Singing

 
Singing in a group is a great way to improve your singing, especially if you're nervous. You could go to a football match or go to church — whatever suits you.

One of the best things you can do for your voice is to join a choir near you. When you practise with a choir, it doesn't matter if you make mistakes because you learn as a group to get the right notes when you rehearse. It is an uplifting experience, you meet new people, it's good for your health and it's good for your confidence. I really recommend this! See the section on joining a choir for more information about this.

Another great place to start is singing workshops — many arts centres, schools and community centres run group classes. And if you really want to sing "Halleujah", look out for events like a "Messiah from scratch". They are great fun!

Some people go for singing lessons, which can really help if you want personal coaching, but of course this will cost some money. A good singing teacher will help you to find your voice and develop your skill with exercises in breathing and posture, but also help you to grow in confidence.

Gareth's top tips for beginners:

join a choir

If you're a newcomer to singing my advice would be:

  • Choose your choir carefully. Don't go in for something that you aren't ready for!
  • When you sing, take deep breaths. Nerves tend to play havoc with your breath and can leave you feeling light-headed. Follow these exercises to develop your breathing skill.
  • Remember that your voice is not YOU. It's just a collection of bits of muscle and cartilage with air blowing through. People may judge your voice but it shouldn't be a judgment on your personality as well.
Finally singing is something that needs to be worked at; you don't arrive at a wonderful sound without some practice and some advice. Everybody has to start somewhere. Keep at it and don't give up.

 

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