There is no doubt that resting your voice prior to a show is key to having success on stage but there are other external factors that can affect one’s vocal chords, such as being in a place where music is playing at a high decibel level.
If you were to ask someone what makes a vocal performance standout, you would get dozens of different answers. In fact, many of the qualifiers for a great vocal performance do not even relate to the actual voice but instead they encompass areas like the confidence and charisma that the singer exudes. Of course, a musician that is especially gifted vocally is sure to put on a better show.
In this sense it is really the ability to command various facets on stage, such as the vocals but also using the right language and owning the stage. Together, these things combine to make a memorable musical performance.
Although, there is no doubt that much practice is needed to accomplish these heights and this includes spending a significant amount of time warming up before you go on stage. This will go a long way in leading to a peak vocal performance.
Vocal Performance Preparation
The best way to prepare your voice for a big show is to take a break from singing. However, if you are in places such as concerts and music halls where the decibel level is very high then you will be forced to yell to overcome the level of noise. This in itself can cause unwanted strain on your voice and it could hinder your vocal performance. This is a concept that often gets overlooked when artists are preparing for a vocal concert because they accept that certain places are loud and that is just the way it is. But, as a vocalist, it is vital to take these things into consideration.
Not only will being forced to talk over loud background noise present problems for your vocal chords, even chatting with friends and fans prior to a show can lead to a less than great performance. If you are hanging out socializing before going on stage, be sure to keep your voice at minimal levels and do not scream to get the attention of others. This act can take a toll on your vocal chords and then they will need additional time to recuperate. Remember, you always want to be at the top of your game when you are going on stage and all other things take the backseat.
The hours leading up to the show are important to consider for maintaining your voice but so are the weeks and months prior. You may be part of a choir or side project in which you lend your vocal talents and these can wear on the vocal chords as well. In fact, many renowned singers have turned down singing opportunities in the weeks leading up to the show because they know that it could affect their ability to hit all of the notes when it really counts.
One more thing to take into consideration for maintaining vocal quality is the atmosphere and environmental conditions. Things like heat and humidity will affect the way your vocal chords feel, so if you feel that these conditions are having a negative impact on your voice it is imperative to remove yourself from the situation when possible.