Starting the path of Singing?

[WyrmDL]

Hey TB,

I've been wanting to learn how to sing properly for a while, but I havent been able to get lessons, so I thought Id just ask for some advice here.

What are some things I could do to start out? What are some things to keep a lookout for? Techniques?

I really want to be able to have a power-type voice from the diaphragm, but I have no idea how to get that started, and my range in incredibly limited.

What are some characteristics that makes a good vocalist?

Thanks!

[Spinal Tapper]

Well, I hate to say it, unlike bass or learning any other instrument, I believe that some people are born with the ability to sing, and some people aren't.

How old are you? While it's never too late to start, I think a good place to start is singing along with your favorite CD's. Who do you listen to right now?

I think the best place to start is see if you have an ear for it, first. Sit down with a friend who's musically inclined and try to sing. Remember, back straight, push air through the diaphram as you sing. Have them play along with a guitar or piano to see if you're in key. Then just practice the CRAP out of it. To some of us, it comes second nature, and to others, we have to work really really hard at it.

[WyrmDL]

Right now I'm 17, 18 in March.

I'm kinda positive I wasn't born with any singing talent, but I'm willing to work hard on it.

and....whats the diaphragm, and how do I know I'm using it?

[Spinal Tapper]

It's where your vocal power comes from, right between your gut and your lungs. There's a sticky about singing and playing on here somewhere - I'd look for that, I'm sure it was written by someone with more knowledge than me on the subject. It'll have a ton of useful tips as far as technique.

[Zomb13]

I can give you this much advice. If while singing you pinch your nose shut and your voice drastically changes, you're pushing your voice in the wrong direction. I never had any lessons, but I know that much.

[wiro]

Be carefull with your voice. It's the most fragile instrument and once damage is done often it cannot be repaired......

So it's important to start learning the right technique. E.g. with guidance from Cathrine Sadolin:

http://www.completevocalinstitute.com/

http://nl.youtube.com/watch?v=lu6aPXoN3k0

[mcm]

It will take a few years to really learn the "ins and outs" for yourself. BUT it will pay off, even if you are not great at it. Learn to be "on pitch" and that alone will take you a long way. If you can learn to sing decently that will make you much more valuable to a band. Remember, most artists cannot sing well anyway, especially in rock n roll. They use singing as a vehicle for value and opportunity and sometimes leadership if singing lead.

As you learn to sing, your vocal range will increase simply because you will know how to use your voice better.

A lead singing bass player or a part time lead singing bass player carries a lot of weight in a band setting.

[Stumbo]

Pick a song, find the lyrics, sing along with a recording. Memorize the lyrics and the melody.
Practice, practice, practice. Sing the song acapella. Record yourself to hear how well you can follow the melody.

Even if you don't have a great voice quality, you should be able to do the above if you have the ear for singing.

Another suggestion, maybe get a vocal coach for awhile and see how you do.

[professor_bills]

And if all else fails, start a Bob Dylan cover band

[ForSix]

You'll be doing yourself a big favor if you learn to read music.

[Passinwind]

Did you read through the sticky at the top of this forum?

[Silas Martinez]

Originally Posted by Passinwind

Did you read through the sticky at the top of this forum?

I was gonna say... I know there is some pretty helpful info right here.......