Mark Baxter’s all-new season of “Sing Better” begins by clearing up a frustrating question: Why do some singers sound incredible with no preparation? Why do some singers need to practice more than others?
The answer is deep skills.
“Practice, practice, practice” might not mean what you think it means
A singer with deep skills doesn’t have to dedicate so much brain power to breathing, resonance, pitch accuracy and the many other aspects of the art of singing. Their deep skills in these areas allow them to put their mental energy into navigating a new musical situation.
Rehearsing songs is the slow path to skill development
A lot of singers think that practicing means rehearsing and perfecting songs. This kind of preparation is important – indeed crucial – but Mark Baxter explains that it is the slow path to improving your skills.
Half of your practicing time should be spent vocalizing – in other words, doing vocal exercises that isolate a particular skill. Through vocalizing, singers can master skills faster than through singing songs alone.
Take an honest look at your skill
Mark Baxter celebrates beginners. He says there is nothing wrong with being a beginner and there are lots of ways you can gain experience before you are ready to be cast as the lead in a musical.
At the beginning, the best way to do this is to create your own, low-key performance opportunities. For example, you can meet up with like-minded singers who are into musical theatre and sing your favorite show tunes for each other.
Perfection is not the end goal
Singing is innate to humans – we all do it. A vocal performance is about more than singing; it is about weaving magic, which requires a great deal of skill. Don’t ever let this fact tempt you to think that the magic of vocal performance comes from skill alone, however.
In any vocal performance, the one thing that is always more important than perfection, is connection.
Practice the word, “yes.”
As your skills and confidence grow, you must become highly skilled at saying “yes” when someone offers you an opportunity to perform. The art of saying “yes” without hesitation will lead to more opportunities and more growth. Try it right now. Imagine someone has asked you to sing at a party or event. Now, say this: “Yes. I’d love to.” Now, say it a few more times.
What is Sing Better?
Sing Better is the podcast that let’s you power up your vocal development with legendary vocal coach, Mark Baxter. Mark gives you the insight you need on becoming a singer, earning money, vocal health, gear and technique.
Mark Baxter has worked as a coach with Aerosmith, Journey, Goo Goo Dolls — and many others. He is the author of The Rock-n-Roll Singer’s Survival Manual, creator of The Singer’s Toolbox instructional DVD, Sing Like an Idol instructional CD. Mark operates vocal studios in New York, Boston, Los Angeles and online via Skype.
