3 Steps to a Successful Vocal Practice Routine

To be successful in all stages of a performing career - whether high school, college or professional - you MUST institute a practice routine and schedule. Not only is a consistent routine vital to becoming a better singer, it can help prepare you mentally, emotionally and physically for the demands of being a performer.

Step One 

Plan a Few Short but Focused Sessions Throughout the Day

Carve out short chunks of time during the day rather than attempting an hour of focused practice. Counting on a longer practice time to be available may result in skipping days when life gets hectic! It’s much easier to find 15 minutes several times a day than a one to two hour chunk of time.

Try This...

• Plan for 10 - 15 minutes of gentle warm up EACH morning either in the shower or before school

• A 10 -15 minute (more vigorous) warm-up before singing in class, a voice lesson or rehearsal

• Spend 15 - 20 minutes in the afternoon or early evening on FOCUSED warm-ups, scales and exercises. This will increase your stamina and range

• After your focused warm-up add on 10 - 30 minutes working on trouble spots in existing repertoire or spending time learning new songs

Step Two

Set Attainable Goals

Do you want to audition for your school musical? Summer Stock? College? 

Try This…

• Write down the due dates for these events

• Write down all the things (tasks) you need to complete to be ready for the event

• Estimate how much time you need for each task

• working backwards from your due date and using the time needed for each task, set some deadlines for yourself and your practice schedule

This method is called “reverse engineering” and it is a great way to work on your master calendar. It can help you stay on top of deadlines without the added stress of last minute practice sessions and cramming to get your words and music memorized. 

Becoming more organized and less stressed will also help you stay healthy… which is the most valuable asset a singer can have!

Step Four

Consistency is KEY!

If you followed this formula every day, Monday - Friday, for one month I know you (and your teacher!) would be amazed at your progress. So many of us practice only to prepare for our next lesson, role or performance… but you will never achieve real success that way. 

Think of yourself as an athlete - a singing athlete! Developing your voice is like developing your body to become a marathon runner. Steady, consistent practice is the best way to achieve real results! 

Don’t wait until audition season to develop your practice routine… do it NOW and then you can enjoy the results when it’s time to audition!

For the past 25 years I have been running summer music training programs designed to help students acquire the skills they need to successfully move to the next step. Now is the time to start looking for the perfect summer program for you. If you would like more information about the OCU Summer Music Programs you can go to https://app.getacceptd.com/publicpageedit/1072?org=1072.2.38337.

Keep Going! and let your inner light shine.