The Best Foods to Eat Before You Sing

As a singer, your voice is your instrument, and just like any instrument, it requires care and maintenance. One key aspect of maintaining your vocal performance is the food you consume before stepping onto the stage. The right foods can help you hit those high notes with ease and maintain your vocal clarity throughout your performance. In this blog post, we'll explore a range of foods that are known to be beneficial for your vocal cords and overall singing performance.

1. Hydration is Key: Water, Water, Water!

Water is everything for singers!

Before even delving into specific foods, let's address the importance of staying hydrated. Keeping your vocal cords moist is essential for optimal vocal performance. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to ensure your vocal cords remain lubricated. Herbal teas and diluted fruit juices can also contribute to hydration, but avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, as they can lead to dehydration.

It's important to drink water at room temperature. But cold or hot water is still better than no water.

2. Honey: Nature's Soothing Elixir

Honeycomb, close-up.

Honey is a golden elixir known for its soothing properties on the throat. A teaspoon of raw, organic honey before singing can help coat your vocal cords and alleviate any irritation. Its natural antibacterial properties can also help prevent infections that might affect your voice.

3. Ginger: A Natural Anti-Inflammatory

Ginger has long been revered for its anti-inflammatory properties. Incorporating ginger into your pre-singing meal can help reduce any inflammation that might affect your vocal cords. Consider adding fresh ginger to warm water for a calming ginger tea, or use it as a seasoning in your meals.

4. Whole Grains: Steady Energy Release

Complex carbohydrates found in whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat bread provide a steady release of energy. This can be particularly beneficial if you're performing for an extended period. These foods help maintain your blood sugar levels, giving you sustained energy without the sudden crashes associated with simple sugars.

5. Lean Proteins: Support Your Muscles

Protein is essential for muscle health, and your vocal cords are intricate muscles. Opt for lean protein sources such as chicken, turkey, fish, tofu, or beans. Proteins help repair and maintain muscle tissue, ensuring your vocal cords are in top shape.

6. Fruits and Veggies: Vitamins and Antioxidants

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides a range of vitamins and antioxidants that contribute to overall health and immune support. Vitamin C, in particular, is known to boost the immune system and help prevent vocal cord infections. Berries, citrus fruits, and leafy greens are excellent choices.

7. Nuts and Seeds: Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids found in nuts (like walnuts) and seeds (like flaxseeds and chia seeds) have anti-inflammatory properties that can help maintain the health of your vocal cords. Additionally, they contribute to overall cardiovascular health.

8. Bananas: Natural Throat Coating

Bananas are not only a quick and easy snack but can also act as a natural throat-coating agent. The soft texture of bananas can help soothe your throat and keep it moisturized.

Add some honey to your banana and your vocal cords will thank you for days!

Remember, every singer's body is different, so it's essential to experiment with these foods and discover what works best for you. Avoid foods that might cause acid reflux or excessive mucus production, such as spicy foods, dairy, and heavily processed foods. It's also wise to eat your pre-singing meal at least an hour before performing to give your body time to digest.

Keep in mind, the foods you consume can significantly impact your vocal performance. By incorporating hydration, soothing agents like honey and ginger, and a well-balanced mix of whole grains, proteins, fruits, and vegetables, you'll be giving your vocal cords the best possible support. With the right fuel, you'll be ready to captivate your audience with your melodious voice and impressive vocal range.

How Music Makes You Smarter

In the quest for cognitive enhancement, many turn to traditional methods such as puzzles, brain games, and academic pursuits. However, an often overlooked avenue to higher intelligence lies in the realm of music education. The correlation between learning music and an elevated IQ has been a subject of interest for researchers and educators alike. In this blog post, we explore the fascinating connection between musical education and cognitive prowess.

The Mozart Effect:

One of the most famous theories linking music and intelligence is the Mozart Effect. Proposed by researcher Gordon Shaw in the early 1990s, this theory suggests that listening to classical music, particularly Mozart, can temporarily boost spatial-temporal reasoning skills. While the long-term effects are still debated, it opened the door to a broader exploration of the impact of music on cognitive abilities.

Cognitive Benefits of Learning Music:

1. Enhanced Memory: Learning to play an instrument requires the memorization of notes, scales, and musical compositions. This process stimulates the brain's memory centers, enhancing both short-term and long-term memory.

2. Improved Mathematical Skills: Music and mathematics share a strong connection. The rhythmic patterns, scales, and structures in music align with mathematical principles. Learning music can improve mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills.

3. Increased Attention and Focus: Playing an instrument demands concentration and focus. Musicians learn to pay attention to multiple elements simultaneously, a skill that translates into heightened concentration in other areas of life.

4. Fine-Tuned Motor Skills: The physical act of playing an instrument refines fine motor skills. This precision in movement contributes to better hand-eye coordination and overall motor skills development.

5. Emotional Intelligence: Music is a language of emotion. Learning to express and interpret emotions through music enhances emotional intelligence. This skill is crucial in navigating social interactions and understanding the perspectives of others.

Neurological Changes:

Recent advances in neuroscience have shed light on the structural changes that occur in the brains of individuals engaged in musical training. Studies using brain imaging techniques have shown that learning music can lead to increased gray matter volume in areas associated with memory, auditory processing, and executive function.

Getting Started:

If you're intrigued by the idea of enhancing your intelligence through music, consider the following steps:

1. Choose an Instrument: Select an instrument that resonates with you. Whether it's the piano, guitar, violin, or any other instrument, the key is to find one that captivates your interest.

2. Take Lessons: Enroll in music lessons, either with a private instructor or through group classes. Structured learning environments provide guidance and support for beginners.

3. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is essential. Set aside dedicated time each day to hone your musical skills. As with any discipline, progress comes with regular and focused effort.

4. Explore Different Genres: Don't limit yourself to a single genre. Experiment with various musical styles to broaden your musical understanding and keep the learning process enjoyable.

Conclusion:

Learning music is a powerful conductor of intelligence. The cognitive benefits, coupled with the joy of creating and appreciating music, make it a harmonious journey towards a higher IQ. So, why not pick up that instrument you've always been curious about and embark on a musical adventure that transcends melody into the realms of intelligence? The notes you play may very well be the keys to unlocking the full potential of your mind.

Unveiling the Truth About Being Tone Deaf: Debunking the Myth

The concept of being "tone deaf" has become a term thrown around casually to describe anyone who struggles with singing or distinguishing musical notes accurately. However, the reality is that true tone deafness, also known as congenital amusia, is a rare condition. In this article, we're going to delve into the truth about being tone deaf and dispel the misconception that a large portion of the population is affected by this condition.

Tone deafness, or congenital amusia, is a neurological condition that impairs an individual's ability to perceive and reproduce musical pitch accurately. This goes beyond simply singing out of tune or struggling with a song. People with true tone deafness have a genuine deficit in processing pitch and melody. Research indicates that congenital amusia is estimated to affect around 1 to 4 percent of the population.

Contrary to popular belief, the vast majority of individuals who think they are tone deaf are not truly experiencing congenital amusia. In many cases, what people consider as tone deafness could be attributed to factors such as lack of musical training, undeveloped or damaged vocal cords, and is often attributed to nervousness.

Human beings are inherently capable of perceiving and differentiating musical pitch. Babies as young as a few months old have been shown to recognize variations in pitch. Our brains are wired to process music, and most individuals, even without formal training, possess some level of musical intuition.

A significant factor that contributes to the misconception of widespread tone deafness is the lack of formal musical education in many people's lives. Just like any skill, understanding and producing musical pitch requires practice and training. Those who have not received any musical education may struggle initially, but this does not mean they are inherently tone deaf.

Even individuals who start with seemingly poor pitch accuracy can make considerable improvements with proper training. Our brains are remarkably adaptable, and consistent practice can strengthen our ability to perceive and reproduce musical notes.

I always encourage my students by reiterating, that one of the most remarkable things about being human that is a fact for EVERYONE, is that when we practice something, steadfastly, whether we like it or not, it is inevitable that we will improve.

Have you ever heard someone singing slightly off-key and thought they were tone deaf? In reality, singing out of tune doesn't necessarily indicate true tone deafness. Often, individuals who sing off-key might have difficulty controlling their vocal cords, breath support, or may struggle with auditory feedback. These issues can be addressed with vocal coaching and practice.

If you're passionate about improving your musical abilities, enrolling in a reputable music school or studying with a vocal coach can be a game-changer. Music schools offer structured training programs that help students develop their pitch accuracy, vocal skills, and overall musicality. They provide expert guidance, practice sessions, and a supportive environment to nurture your musical talents.

It's time to debunk the myth that a large percentage of the population is truly tone deaf. While congenital amusia is a rare neurological condition, the inability to sing perfectly in tune is not a reliable indicator of tone deafness. With proper musical education, training, and practice, the majority of individuals can improve their pitch accuracy and musical abilities.

So, the next time you find yourself hesitating to sing along with a song, remember that true tone deafness is a rarity. Embrace the joy of music, and don't let the fear of being "tone deaf" hold you back from expressing yourself through song. If you're serious about honing your musical skills, consider finding a vocal coach, or a music school that offers vocal training with reputable teachers. The gift of singing is truly available to just about everyone.

Here are reputable sources you can use to support each key point in your blog post. I’m listing them in a clear way so you can either integrate them in-text or add a reference list at the end.

Sources

• Peretz, I., Champod, A. S., & Hyde, K. (2003). Varieties of musical disorders: The Montreal Battery of Evaluation of Amusia. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences.

• Peretz, I. (2016). Neurobiology of congenital amusia. Trends in Cognitive Sciences.

• Peretz, I., Ayotte, J., et al. (2002). Congenital amusia: A disorder of fine-grained pitch discrimination. Neuron.

• Harvard Health Publishing (Harvard Medical School). “Tone Deafness Is Rare.”

• Cuddy, L. L., & Wong, D. (2006). Musical pitch perception and error detection in the general population. Annals of the NY Academy of Sciences.

• BBC Science Focus Magazine: “Are some people really tone deaf?”

• Trainor, L. J. & Trehub, S. E. (1992). "A comparison of infants’ and adults’ sensitivity to Western musical structure." Journal of Experimental Psychology: Human Perception and Performance.

• Trehub, S. (2003). The developmental origins of musicality. Nature Neuroscience.

• Berkowska, M., & Dalla Bella, S. (2009). Redefining “tone deafness”: Vocal performance in congenital amusia.Brain Sciences.

• Hutchins, S. & Peretz, I. (2012). Aging, pitch perception, and vocal production. Psychology and Aging.

• Ericsson, K. A. (1993). The role of deliberate practice in the acquisition of expert performance.

• Herholz, S. C., & Zatorre, R. J. (2012). Musical training as a framework for brain plasticity. Neuron.

• Gaser, C. & Schlaug, G. (2003). Brain structures differ between musicians and non-musicians. Journal of Neuroscience.

• Pfordresher, P. Q., & Brown, S. (2007). Poor-pitch singing in the absence of "tone deafness". Music Perception.

• Berklee College of Music Vocal Pedagogy Resources (covers vocal coordination, breath support, and pitch).

• National Association for Music Education (NAfME) – research on benefits of formal music training for pitch accuracy.

• Welch, G. F. (2006). Singing and vocal development. Progress in Brain Research.

Practicing Triads on the Piano

Why practice triads on piano?

Like playing scales, practicing with triads is essential for your growth as a piano/keyboard player.

Practicing a variety of exercises with triads will increase dexterity between the fingers and the hands. You’ll also gain muscle memory in your fingers and hands that is necessary for your evolution and will undoubtedly propel you forward.

How to Practice Triads on the Piano

In the video below, I show two intermediate exercises that will really get triads into your hands. These exercises get your fingers moving independently at the the same time, while gaining necessary muscle memory by playing the triads and their inversions up and down the keyboard.

These exercises are for those who already know the major and minor triads as well as their inversions.

Things to think about:

1. You MUST use the correct finger numbers. Using the right finger numbers consistently will help your muscles to remember the correct way to play triads (in this case) and the more you play the less you will need to look at your fingers. As you go on to play either improvisationaly or reading music, this will help you so much!

2. USE A METRONOME. Always use a metronome when you practice. But especially for this exercise. It’s so imperative if you want to be bad-ass player. Piano is as percussive of an instrument as it is melodic…so you MUST practice like a drummer.

3.  Start slow. it’s always better to play the right notes slowly than the wrong note’s fast as this will just hinder your growth. You're muscles will either remember the wrong positions or just get confused and remember nothing. So, GO SLOW.

THE EXERCISES

EXERCISE 1:

PLAY ARPEGGIOS UP AND DOWN KEYBOARD

-   MAJOR AND MINOR TRIADS

• START WITH HANDS SEPARATE AND THEN PLAY THEM TOGETHER

• START WITH QUARTER NOTES, THEN EIGHTH. ONCE THIS IS EASY FOR YOU TRY 8TH NOTE TRIPLETS AND 16TH NOTES.

EXCERCISE 2:

PLAY MAJOR AND MINOR TRIADS IN INVERSIONS UP AND DOWN THE KEYBOARD. FIRST WITH HANDS SEPARATE THEN TOGETHER.

If you have any questions or comments either respond here or via my YouTube page. I'm so happy you are here and would love to help you!

Happy Playing,

XXOO

Lynn

Why Weekly Music Lessons Are Your Secret Superpower

Music is a limitless medium of expression, transcending language barriers with an endless vocabulary of its own. That said the benefits of learning an instrument or singing are boundless. Consistent weekly music lessons are crucial to reaping these benefits and developing your skills. In this blog, we will explore the importance of consistent weekly music lessons for building a strong foundation, improving technique, providing motivation and accountability, exposing you to different styles and genres, and developing social connections.

Building a Strong Foundation

To building a strong foundation in music, consistency is key. Regular practice is essential to learning an instrument or improving your singing, which is only achievable through consistent weekly lessons. A music teacher can help you establish a practice routine and ensure that you are progressing at a steady pace. Consistency in lessons also allows for the teacher to assess your progress and adjust their teaching accordingly, ensuring that you are receiving the instruction and guidance needed to succeed.

Improving Technique

It is imperative to study weekly in order to acquire proper technique . Proper technique is critical in learning to play an instrument or sing, and requires regular practice under the guidance of a knowledgeable teacher. Regular lessons also provide the opportunity for the teacher to correct any errors and provide feedback on how to improve technique.

Motivation and Accountability

Consistent weekly music lessons provide motivation and accountability. Having a teacher to provide guidance and support can make a significant difference in your motivation and drive to continue learning. Regular lessons also provide accountability, as you have a set time and place to show up and work on your skills. This is so important! This accountability can help prevent procrastination and ensure that you are making progress.

Exposure to Different Styles and Genres

Consistent weekly music lessons provide exposure to different styles and genres of music. A good teacher will expose you to a variety of music, from classical to contemporary, allowing you to broaden your horizons and develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for music. Regular lessons also provide opportunities to learn about music theory, history, and other related topics, which can enhance your overall musical knowledge and understanding.

Developing Social Connections

Music is a social activity that can help you develop connections with others who share your interests. Consistent weekly music lessons provide opportunities to meet and connect with other musicians, whether through group lessons or performances. This can help build a sense of community and provide support and encouragement as you work towards your goals.

In conclusion, consistent weekly music lessons are essential for anyone looking to improve their musical skills and reap the benefits of learning an instrument or singing. By building a strong foundation, improving technique, providing motivation and accountability, exposing you to different styles and genres, and developing social connections, consistent lessons can help you reach your full musical potential. So, if you're serious about your musical pursuits, or just want to get the most out of your money and your time, make sure to commit to regular weekly lessons with a qualified and experienced teacher. You'll be amazed at the rate of your progress!

Sources

• "Why Consistency is Key in Music Lessons," Music and Arts blog. Available at: https://www.musicarts.com/blog/education/why-consistency-is-key-in-music-lessons

• "The Importance of Consistency in Music Lessons," Merriam Music blog. Available at: https://www.merriammusic.com/the-importance-of-consistency-in-music-lessons/

• "The Benefits of Consistent Music Lessons," JoyTunes blog. Available at: https://www.joytunes.com/blog/music-lessons/benefits-consistent-music-lessons

• "The Importance of a Well-Rounded Music Education," Yamaha Music Education blog. Available at: https://yamahaeducatorsuite.com/the-importance-of-a-well-rounded-music-education

• "The Benefits of Music Education," National Association for Music Education. Available at: https://nafme.org/programs/music-education/the-benefits-of-music-education/