Vocal Exercises for Actors

Being an actor means having full control not only of your body, but also your vocal chords. I can't tell you how many times sitting in the casting director chair, I've seen actors who have great potential, but they didn't command attention or power through their voice. Worse, they didn't understand how to control their voice or it was obvious they didn't take care of this vital acting tool.

Although there are literally hundreds of different vocal exercises, below are some of the most effective I've personally used. Perform these exercises at least once a day to keep your voice in tip-top-shape.

Face Massage

Massage your face with your fingertips as well as with the palm of your hands. Apply light pressure to your jaw and nasal-labial folds, also known as your laugh-lines. Make sure you also massage your forehead. Since you'll be touching your face, make sure your hands are recently cleaned to prevent clogging your pores with dirt and debris.

The Hummmmm

This is one of the most effective vocal warmups, and I personally do this before any speaking engagement. Sit with your back straight, and take a deep inhale that expands your diaphragm. During your exhale, vocalize the sound, "Hummmmmmm" until you have no more breath. Repeat five times.

Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha

This is a great exercise to help give control into your voice and breathing. Stand with your shoulders resting and your face pointing forward. Place your hand on your abdomen, and breathe in so your abdomen expands (also known as diaphragm breathing). During your exhale, make static "Ha. Ha. Ha. Ha." noises. With every "Ha," push in your abdomen to force the sound out of you. Note: this is not an extended note, but rather staccato.

Guh

Sit or stand comfortably, and repeat the sound "Guh" five to ten times. Do this in the same manner as the above exercise.

Pah

Sit or stand comfortably, and repeat the sound "Pah" five to ten times.

Kah

Sit or stand comfortably, and repeat the sound "Kah" five to ten times in a staccato fashion.

Buh

Sit or stand comfortably, and repeat the sound "Buh" five to ten times in a staccato fashion.

Me, Me, Me, Maaahhhhh

Standing or sitting, repeat the following phrase "Me, Me, Me" performed in a staccato fashion, and finally follow with an extended "Maaahhhhhh" as your exhale your full breath.