The Ten Commandments of Vocal Health
by Sarah Sloan
This is a handout I usually give when I hold clinics at middle and high schools. The advice applies to adults too!
1. Don't smoke – ANYTHING.
Smoking is inhaling tiny burning embers into your throat. It bakes the vocal cords and instantly inflames them.
2. Keep yelling, screaming and loud talking to an absolute minimum.
Making loud sounds, without the proper technique, rub the vocal folds together. Over long periods of time this can cause nodules and permanent damage.
3. Learn good singing technique.
This will help your speaking voice and preserve the vocal folds for years to come.
4. Practice well and often.
See #4.
5. Don't drink or use any kind of drugs.
Alcohol dehydrates the body and vocal folds. Drugs destroy your health entirely.
6. Sing in the proper fach (voice type).
High voiced singers can preserve their voice by singing high, low voiced singers, etc.
7. Avoid speaking or singing when you are sick or have laryngitis.
Laryngitis requires rest and silence. Permanent damage can result from unresolved laryngitis.
8. Consult an ENT if you have prolonged hoarseness.
If you are hoarse for four months or more see an ear, nose and throat doctor.
9. Exercise and stay in excellent shape.
Your whole body supports your lungs and larynx. Treat it like a Steinway.
10. Avoid coughing, throat clearing, grunting, glottal stops and vocal fry.
All these glottal activities bang the cords together and cause irritation. If repeated over long periods of time this can result in nodules.