will belting make me lose my voice?
Mastering Safe Belting and Shouting: Debunking Myths with the Estill Model
In the realm of vocal performance, belting and shouting are techniques that can electrify an audience with their power and intensity. However, they also carry risks if not executed correctly. There's a prevailing myth that belting and shouting require excessive breath support and abdominal engagement to produce a strong sound. Today, we'll explore how understanding the Estill model and adopting proper techniques can debunk this myth and promote safe vocal practices.
Understanding the Estill Model
The Estill Voice Training System, developed by Jo Estill, provides a scientific framework for understanding vocal production. It emphasises that the vocal mechanism is versatile and can be controlled with precision to achieve various vocal qualities, including belting and shouting, without strain or damage.
Central to the Estill model is the concept of ‘retraction’, whereby the false vocal folds (used when we strain or build up pressure in the body, for example when lifting something heavy, or doing a number two!) are actively retracted, as opposed to constricted, thereby allowing the true vocal folds beneath to vibrate freely and without strain.
Debunking the Myth of Excessive Breath and Abdominal Tension
Contrary to popular belief, belting and shouting effectively do not require an excessive amount of breath or abdominal engagement. In fact, excessive breath pressure and tension can lead to vocal strain, fatigue, and potential long-term damage. Your vocal folds vibrate together hundreds of times per second when you sing, moving apart and together in a wave-like motion to create sound waves. So imagine blowing a load of air through them - they’re going to have to work so much harder to achieve the contact they need!
Instead, the Estill model teaches:
Retraction: Opening up (retracting) the false vocal folds - mentioned above - to allow the true vocal folds to function safely and freely.
Optimal larynx positioning: The larynx should be high (but still free to move) when belting.
Anchoring: Actively engaging the outer head, neck and back muscles in order to allow the inner muscles to be supported.
always work with a trained voice coach on this, for specialist guidance and to ensure safe vocalising.
Abdominal release: There should be no active abdominal engagement when belting, or when singing in general. The transversus abdominis (the innermost abdominal muscle, and the only one directly attached to the diaphragm) does engage when we sing, but we cannot consciously control this engagement. It is only through relaxing the outer abdominal muscles that the transversus abdominis can do its job!
Good vocal fold contact: When the vocal folds vibrate together, they create sound waves. We want vocal fold contact to be as clear as possible, without excess breathiness. Try saying “uh oh” (as in “oops!”) and try to make the sound as clean and clear as you can.
Resonance: Work with an Estill-trained voice coach on techniques such as ‘Cry’ and ‘Twang’ to make your belt sweeter and brighter.
Efficiency: By focusing on efficient use of the vocal mechanism, singers can achieve a strong, clear sound with minimal effort, reducing the risk of vocal injury.
Safe Practices for Belting and Shouting
To safely incorporate belting and shouting into your vocal repertoire, consider the following tips:
Warm-Up: Always warm up your voice with exercises that focus on gently moving through your range, releasing your tongue, and retracting your false vocal folds.
See a voice coach for warm up techniques which actually prepare your voice for singing, rather than tiring your voice out.
Monitor Tension: Avoid tensing the abdomen or forcing breath pressure. Instead, focus on maintaining a balanced airflow and relaxed abdominals.
Rest and Hydration: Adequate rest and hydration are crucial for maintaining vocal health. Avoid overusing your voice and take breaks during intense vocal sessions.
Seek Professional Guidance: Work with a vocal coach trained in the Estill model to receive personalised guidance and feedback on your technique.
Conclusion
Belting and shouting can be exhilarating vocal techniques when performed safely and effectively. By understanding the principles of the Estill model—particularly structures and retraction—and debunking the myth of needing excessive breath and abdominal tension, singers can achieve powerful vocal performances without compromising their vocal health.
Remember, mastering these techniques takes time, patience, and a commitment to proper vocal care. Embrace the science behind vocal production, prioritise safe practices, and enjoy the journey of exploring your vocal potential with confidence and longevity in mind. Here's to singing boldly and healthily!