Music Box Voice

Use Your Singing Voice as a Music Box and Overcome Stagefright

Did you know that you can use your voice like a music box?

Your voice is an instrument of music, just like the music box.

As a child, you probably opened some sort of music box and was amazed at how, when the box was open, the music flowed out beautifully.

But, when closed, there was none.

Your voice works similar to the music box. You must open your mouth and let the music and sounds go forth. Don't shut up your talents because of fear or anxiety. Overcome stagefright when singing with the tips below.

Things that can Hinder Your Singing

A music box automatically starts playing music once opened - there's absolutely no hesitation. One thing that hinders many beginning singers is hesitation.

I recall a friend of mine who was going to sing before her church's congregation with a pianist. The pianist played beautifully when reading music notes. However, this particular song had to be played without music notes.

The soloist knew the music and song well in her mind and could sing it beautifully without the piano. But, when she tried to sing with the music playing, the pianist noticed that the singer was hesitating to start the verses and lines.

The singer was waiting to "hear" the notes before singing them. This caused both the singing and piano music to be way off in timing. The pianist suggested to the singer that she start right in on the verses and chorus as if she were singing without music, and the pianist would follow with the piano.

When the singer tried this one technique, she was able to sing the song successfully, with the piano following in perfect rhythm!

When you hesitate, your song will either drag or sound as if it's moving too fast.

Jump right in with both feet. Just like the music box, your song will be right on time.

Breathe when Singing

Improper breathing can also hinder your singing when stagefright hits. To tackle this problem, breathe slowly as your time to sing approaches. Take deep, relaxing breaths to calm your mind and body.

In a music box, there are pauses between every phrase. Those pauses should be your breathing moments. While singing, be sure to breathe throughout your song - every chance you get. Many singers make the mistake of holding their breath during a verse or long phrase. This causes panic!

Even if you must take very quick, short breaths after every few words, it will improve your singing and help eliminate anxiety. Also, relax your entire body and focus only on hitting the right key and making the song sound great to listeners.

Here's a quick example of how and when to breathe during a song:

"Some people spend a lifetime just searching (short breath) for a dream (deep breath)

They don't know that fame and fortune (short breath) is just a passing thing (deep breath)

I don't want the world to love me (short breath) or castles in the air (deep breath)

I just want to know that your sweet love (short breath) will always be there (deep breath)"

---- Chorus from "Your Sweet Love" by yours truly d:-)

To sing as smoothly as a music box, practice these three things with every song:

1) Relax and breathe before singing.

2) Become familiar with where and how you will breathe during every song.

3) Focus your mind and energy on getting the song right, not how nervous you feel.

Use these tips to transform your singing voice into a music box that all those around you will enjoy!