4+ Essential Tips to Stop Nasal Singing and Improve Your Vocals

Nasal singing, also known as hypernasality, occurs when too much air resonates in the nasal cavity during singing. This can result in a “twangy” or “honky” sound. While some singers may embrace nasal singing as a stylistic choice, it can also be a sign of underlying vocal issues.

There are several potential causes of nasal singing, including:

Improper vocal technique
Structural abnormalities in the nose or throat
Allergies or other nasal congestion

Correcting nasal singing typically involves addressing the underlying cause. A vocal coach can help singers develop proper vocal technique, while a doctor can rule out any structural abnormalities or medical conditions. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct nasal singing.

There are also several exercises that singers can do to help reduce nasal singing. These exercises focus on strengthening the muscles that control the soft palate and velum, which help to close off the nasal cavity during singing. With regular practice, these exercises can help singers to develop a more resonant and balanced vocal sound.

1. Technique

Improper vocal technique is a major contributing factor to nasal singing. When singers do not properly support their voices, they may find that they are more likely to sing nasally. This is because the muscles that control the soft palate and velum, which help to close off the nasal cavity during singing, are not strong enough to do so effectively. As a result, air escapes through the nose, resulting in a nasal sound.

Poor breath control can also contribute to nasal singing. When singers do not have good breath control, they may find that they are more likely to run out of breath while singing. This can lead to them taking shallow breaths, which can cause the soft palate and velum to collapse, allowing air to escape through the nose.

There are a number of things that singers can do to improve their vocal technique and reduce nasal singing. These include:

Taking vocal lessons from a qualified vocal coach
Practicing vocal exercises regularly
Singing in a choir or other group setting
Using a microphone to amplify their voices

By following these tips, singers can improve their vocal technique and reduce nasal singing. This will help them to develop a more balanced and resonant vocal sound.

2. Anatomy

Structural abnormalities in the nose or throat can contribute to nasal singing by altering the way that air flows through the vocal tract. A deviated septum, for example, can block one nostril and force air to flow through the other nostril, which can create a nasal sound. Enlarged turbinates can also block the nasal passages and cause air to flow through the mouth, which can also lead to nasal singing. A long soft palate can also contribute to nasal singing by blocking the closure of the velopharyngeal port, which is the opening between the nose and the throat. This can allow air to escape through the nose during singing, resulting in a nasal sound.

Deviated septum: A deviated septum is a condition in which the septum, the wall of cartilage and bone that divides the nose into two nostrils, is shifted to one side. This can make one nostril smaller than the other and can block the flow of air through the nose. A deviated septum can be present from birth or can be caused by an injury to the nose.
Enlarged turbinates: The turbinates are small, scroll-like bones that line the nasal passages. They help to warm and humidify the air that we breathe. Enlarged turbinates can block the nasal passages and make it difficult to breathe through the nose. Enlarged turbinates can be caused by allergies, infections, or other conditions.
Long soft palate: The soft palate is the muscular flap that hangs down from the back of the roof of the mouth. It helps to close off the velopharyngeal port during swallowing and speaking. A long soft palate can block the closure of the velopharyngeal port and allow air to escape through the nose during singing.

If you have any of these structural abnormalities, you may be more likely to experience nasal singing. However, there are a number of things that you can do to reduce nasal singing, including:

Singing lessons: A vocal coach can help you to develop proper vocal technique and reduce nasal singing.
Vocal exercises: There are a number of vocal exercises that can help to strengthen the muscles that control the soft palate and velum.
Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct a structural abnormality that is contributing to nasal singing.

3. Resonance

Resonance is a crucial aspect of singing that can significantly impact the overall sound and quality of one’s voice. Nasal singing, which occurs when excessive sound resonates in the nasal cavity, can be caused by various factors, including improper vocal technique, anatomical abnormalities, and allergies. Understanding the connection between resonance and nasal singing is essential for addressing and resolving this vocal issue.

Improper Vocal Technique: Incorrect vocal technique, such as inadequate breath support or improper placement of the voice, can lead to nasal singing. When the breath is not properly supported, the vocal cords may not vibrate efficiently, resulting in a weak and airy sound. Insufficient breath support can also cause the soft palate to drop, allowing air to escape through the nose and creating a nasal resonance.
Anatomical Abnormalities: Structural abnormalities in the nose or throat, such as a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates, can obstruct the nasal passages and alter the flow of air during singing. These obstructions can cause excessive sound to resonate in the nasal cavity, resulting in nasal singing.
Allergies: Allergies can cause nasal congestion and inflammation, which can narrow the nasal passages and affect the resonance of the voice. When the nasal passages are congested, air cannot flow freely through the nose, leading to nasal singing.

Addressing nasal singing involves identifying and addressing the underlying causes. Vocal exercises and techniques can help improve vocal technique and strengthen the muscles that control the soft palate. Surgical interventions may be necessary to correct anatomical abnormalities, while medical treatment can alleviate allergies and reduce nasal congestion.

4. Exercises

Exercises that strengthen the muscles that control the soft palate and velum can be an effective way to reduce nasal singing. These muscles help to close off the nasal cavity during singing, which prevents air from escaping through the nose and creating a nasal sound. There are a number of different exercises that can be used to strengthen these muscles, including:

The “ng” exercise: This exercise involves humming the sound “ng” while keeping the lips closed. This helps to engage the soft palate and velum and strengthen the muscles that control them.
The “straw phonation” exercise: This exercise involves blowing air through a straw while making a sound. This helps to create resistance and strengthen the muscles that control the soft palate and velum.
The “tongue trill” exercise: This exercise involves rolling the tongue back and forth against the roof of the mouth while making a sound. This helps to strengthen the muscles that control the soft palate and velum, as well as the tongue.

These are just a few examples of exercises that can be used to reduce nasal singing. It is important to practice these exercises regularly in order to see results. With regular practice, singers can strengthen the muscles that control the soft palate and velum, which will help to reduce nasal singing and improve vocal quality.

In addition to exercises, there are a number of other things that singers can do to reduce nasal singing, such as:

Maintaining good posture: Good posture helps to support the vocal cords and keep the soft palate in the correct position.
Breathing correctly: Proper breathing techniques help to support the vocal cords and prevent the soft palate from collapsing.
Avoiding straining the voice: Straining the voice can weaken the vocal cords and make nasal singing more likely.

By following these tips, singers can reduce nasal singing and improve their vocal quality.

FAQs

Nasal singing, also known as hypernasality, is a common vocal issue that can be caused by a variety of factors. While some singers may embrace nasal singing as a stylistic choice, it can also be a sign of underlying vocal issues. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about nasal singing:

Question 1: What causes nasal singing?

Nasal singing can be caused by a variety of factors, including improper vocal technique, structural abnormalities in the nose or throat, and allergies. Improper vocal technique, such as not supporting the voice properly or not breathing correctly, can lead to nasal singing. Structural abnormalities, such as a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates, can block the nasal passages and cause air to escape through the nose during singing. Allergies can also cause nasal congestion and inflammation, which can lead to nasal singing.

Question 2: How can I stop nasal singing?

There are a number of things that singers can do to stop nasal singing, including improving vocal technique, addressing any underlying structural abnormalities or allergies, and practicing vocal exercises. Vocal exercises that focus on strengthening the muscles that control the soft palate and velum can be particularly helpful.

Question 3: Is nasal singing harmful?

Nasal singing is not typically harmful, but it can be a sign of underlying vocal issues. If you are concerned about nasal singing, it is important to see a vocal coach or doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Question 4: Can anyone stop nasal singing?

With proper vocal technique and practice, anyone can stop nasal singing. However, it is important to be patient and consistent with your practice. It may take some time to see results, but with regular practice, you will be able to reduce or eliminate nasal singing.

Question 5: What are some tips for preventing nasal singing?

There are a number of things that singers can do to prevent nasal singing, including maintaining good posture, breathing correctly, and avoiding straining the voice. Good posture helps to support the vocal cords and keep the soft palate in the correct position. Breathing correctly helps to support the vocal cords and prevent the soft palate from collapsing. Avoiding straining the voice can help to prevent vocal cord damage and reduce the risk of nasal singing.

Question 6: What are some resources for learning more about nasal singing?

There are a number of resources available for learning more about nasal singing, including books, articles, and websites. You can also find helpful information by talking to a vocal coach or doctor.

By understanding the causes of nasal singing and following the tips outlined above, singers can reduce or eliminate nasal singing and improve their vocal quality.

Transition to the next article section:

For more information on vocal health, please see our article on how to maintain a healthy voice.

Tips to Stop Nasal Singing

Nasal singing, or hypernasality, occurs when too much air resonates in the nasal cavity during singing. This can result in a “twangy” or “honky” sound. While some singers may embrace nasal singing as a stylistic choice, it can also be a sign of underlying vocal issues.

Here are eight tips to help you stop nasal singing:

Tip 1: Improve your vocal technique

Nasal singing is often caused by improper vocal technique. Work with a vocal coach to develop proper breath support, resonance, and articulation.

Tip 2: Address any underlying structural abnormalities

Structural abnormalities in the nose or throat, such as a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates, can contribute to nasal singing. Consult with a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Tip 3: Practice vocal exercises

There are a number of vocal exercises that can help to strengthen the muscles that control the soft palate and velum, which help to close off the nasal cavity during singing. Practice these exercises regularly to improve your vocal quality.

Tip 4: Maintain good posture

Good posture helps to support the vocal cords and keep the soft palate in the correct position. Stand up straight with your shoulders back and your head held high.

Tip 5: Breathe correctly

Proper breathing techniques help to support the vocal cords and prevent the soft palate from collapsing. Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth.

Tip 6: Avoid straining your voice

Straining your voice can weaken the vocal cords and make nasal singing more likely. Avoid singing at a volume that is too loud or for too long.

Tip 7: Warm up your voice before singing

Warming up your voice before singing helps to prepare your vocal cords for singing and reduce the risk of nasal singing.

Tip 8: Cool down your voice after singing

Cooling down your voice after singing helps to prevent vocal fatigue and reduce the risk of nasal singing. Hum or sing softly for a few minutes after you finish singing.

By following these tips, you can improve your vocal technique and reduce or eliminate nasal singing.

Transition to the article’s conclusion:

If you are concerned about nasal singing, it is important to see a vocal coach or doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. With proper vocal technique and practice, you can improve your vocal quality and sing with confidence.

Conclusion

Nasal singing, or hypernasality, can be a common vocal issue with a variety of causes. By understanding the causes of nasal singing and following the tips outlined in this article, singers can reduce or eliminate nasal singing and improve their vocal quality.