1. Can I change my voice?
No. Your voice can't be changed, but it could be improved when you breathe properly and use your whole body instead of just your mouth and throat to speak.
2. Does a good voice mean a deeper voice?
Absolutely not. To develop a good voice is not about going deeper. If you press your voice down into a lower end, you won't feel comfortable and you'll get tired easily and quickly. A good voice means a fuller and richer voice, which is supported by diaphragmatic breathing and full of resonance and harmony.
3. How important is breathing?
Oh, boy, breathing is everything. Not only is breathing the engine of your voice, but the measure of your life. If you can't breathe for 30 seconds, you would have given up all you own to breathe again, wouldn't you?
The quality of your breath determines the quality of your voice. The deeper and stronger your breath is, the better and stronger your voice will be.
4. Once I learned diaphragmatic breathing, does that mean I must breathe that way all the time?
Of course. But as a beginner, it takes time to make diaphragmatic breathing a habit. Practice the daily breathing exercise mentioned in our Voice Card, preferably every morning. Also, whenever you realize you are not breathing properly, relax and then breathe with the support of your diaphragm. With practice and awareness, you will achieve it.
5. Does voice training mean helping me sound good?
Voice training is more about helping you speak with your whole body, not just your mouth or your throat, than sounding good. It's also about discovering yourself, e.g. what may hold you back for a better voice. People who mumble, talk fast, or softly all have a reason underneath.
6. Do I need to work very hard to produce a better sound?
No. The best sound is produced when you are most relaxed. Haven't you noticed that people tend to talk faster and mumble when they are nervous in public speaking? It's because they have too much tension, which prevents you from producing a good sound.
7. What's the most important thing I can do for my voice?
Drink plenty of water, do not smoke, do not take diary food and coffee before speaking... The list can go on and on. The bottom line is to keep your vocal folds moisturized.
Cynthia is a voice and speech coach and trainer, based in Singapore. She helps you discover your inner true voice that is authentic and confident. She also helps organizations on voice and presentation skills training.
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