Singing After Having a Cold
Our body aches, we run a fever, we cough a lot..we generally feel yucky...and then our bodies finally begin to recover (after a week or more). You've been away from singing all this time and have no clue how to get back into the swing of things...should I take it easy? Should I wait until I am 100% better?
I know that these questions have come across you mind at one point or another. Whether those questions pertained to singing or not is another story. However, for those of you who are curious in learning how to sing after having a cold, I want to share with you a few insights that I have learned over the years.
First of all, don't take having a cold like it is the end of the world for your voice. It could actually be beneficial for your voice in the long run. For instance, if you have been practicing new, proper techniques and you happen catch a cold...that downtime being sick will give your vocal cords time to accommodate to the new exercises, replacing old, bad habits. Who knows, your vocal cords may come back even stronger than before.
Secondly, once you begin to recover from the cold, start off with light exercises that emphasize the closure of the cords. Try edgy (vocal fry type) staccato exercises in order to feel that connection. An edgy "eee" or "aaa" sound helps bring your vocal cords together gently. Remember to keep these exercises light - don't go into exercising heavily until you are near 100% better.
Thirdly, practice in short (but more frequent) intervals. So instead of practicing for 30 minutes at a time, try practicing for 5 minutes at a time..but doing it every hour. Doing this will ensure that you don't damage your weakened vocal cords. It will also help your vocal cords gradually regain strength and endurance.
In the end, it comes down to being careful and not overdoing it. Remember that your vocal cords will be weak from the sickness, so take that into consideration when you are practicing. Light exercises (both volume and weight) are generally the best during the recovery stage, so practice exercises that keep your sound focused more towards your head (like "goo" and "wee").
Do you have some tips for singing after a cold? Share them with me in the comment section!
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Published by Thomas Griffin
Thomas is an avid singer and loves theology. He is currently pursuing a degree in Business Management at Appalachian State University. He is actively engaged in vocal study and developing quality singing tec... View profile
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11 Comments
Post a CommentYour vocal chords will be in better shape if you do not use them when coughing or clearing your throat. It can be done, and it can become a good habit.
Great tips. Love the picture!! :)
Good tips.
Funny that I like the way my voice sounds when I have a cold. A bit raspy but it still works.
Excellent info
Solid advice!
Cold or no cold I sound the same - that Jersey twang!
Great advice
I always did like my voice after a cold, so husky and sexy.
this is excellent advice!