VOICE / LESSON 03
Breathing Exercises for Singing
Now let's put the ideas from the first two breathing lessons into practice. I also use variations of this exercise in my own lessons. If you haven't read the earlier articles, start with the links below.
There are many breathing exercises for singers. Here is a straightforward one to help you become more aware of steady airflow.
Exercise: step by step
1. Take a comfortable, deep breath, allowing the ribs and abdomen to expand. Try not to lift your shoulders.
2. Imagine a balloon gently expanding around your waist. You do not need to force your belly outward.
3. Bring your teeth close together, part your lips slightly, and exhale slowly with a soft “sss” sound.
4. Rest a hand on your abdomen and notice it gradually returning as you exhale. Aim for an even, comfortable stream of air.
5. Over time, extend the exhalation gradually. The original exercise suggests aiming for 30–40 seconds, but comfort and consistency matter more than a fixed duration.
This exercise helps you practise regulating your exhalation rather than releasing all the air at once. Keep the breath steady, avoid strain, and stop if you feel dizzy. With regular practice, controlled exhalation can make sustained sung phrases feel more secure.
You can build on this with lip trills and tongue trills. If you would like individual feedback or more advanced exercises, you are welcome to join an online singing lesson.