The Winey Presenter Voice

Chevette, the All About Voice mascot sez 'Do ya ever feel like yowling when you hear a Presenter speak in a high, winey tone?' To which I replied, 'Yes, Chevette, but Presenters can CHANGE the tone of their voice; they just need to learn how to do that with some voice coaching!'

Viva La Voice is Now A Member of AFCC!

Viva La Voice - Beth Lawrence

Visit us in Ahwatukee!

Bring Back the Piano Bar!

PIANO BAR! (what do YOU think?) There is so much emphasis put on being a technically 'perfect' singer, that by adulthood most people are terrified to sing in front of anyone, even 'Happy Birthday' at a party! It's time for a SINGING REVOLUTION, where we become like kids again and just sing for the FUN of it! I say 'BRING BACK THE PIANO BAR!"

The Secret to the 'IT' Factor!

Have you ever gone to a concert where the singer just totally mesmerized you, even though they may not have been the best singer in the world? The performer just had the 'IT' factor? One way to develop the 'IT' factor not only when you're onstage, but in your everyday dealings with people day to day, is this: THINK OF YOUR BREATH AS PURE ENERGY! When you are preparing for a concert; a meeting; a difficult conversation, visualize the air you are breathing in as PURE ENERGY! Fill yourself up with that energy. THEN: RELEASE THAT GOLDEN ENERGY OUT TO THE WORLD! Energy comes in, energy goes out. Your audience will feel that energy, it will create a connection with the person or people you're speaking to. BREATH IS ENERGY - USE IT! I have a new Facebook page... All About Voice - please join the conversation there, and give me your comments on how this 'breathing in the energy' works for you!

Dream Like Mick Jagger!

I'm a voice coach, so if you asked me if Mick Jagger was a good singer, technically speaking, I'd have to say no. But that doesn't mean he isn't charismatic; electric and utterly unique as a performer. When you sing, you have to be the whole package - it's not enough to just be a good singer. Mick Jagger said "Lose your dreams and you might lose your mind." So if you dream of being a singer, look at Jagger and remember that he may not have a stellar voice, but he connects with his audience, gives them a good time, and has followed his own dream to the pinnacle of success! Dream Big!

Soothing Pets with Vocal Music!

Have you ever tried music with vocals to soothe your pet? My doggie Chevette used to have terrible separation anxiety. Now when I leave the house I put on my lullaby CD and it seems to keep her calm. I also use lavender oil. Have you tried music for your own doggies? What has been your experience? What kind of music do they respond to? I would love to have your comments on All About Voice FB page.

Here's a wonderful exercise in mindfulness, that also has intrinsic benefits for your speaking voice! I welcome your comments once you've tried this exercise for a day!

Alzheimer's and Singing!

I've posted excerpts from a BBC News article on +All About Voice. Caregivers, what has your experience been with singing and Alzheimer's?