Teacher: Welcome! Today we’re covering one of the most important (and misunderstood) parts of singing: breath support. Whether you’re just starting out or returning to voice lessons after a break, these breathing tips for singing lessons will help you sing with more power, control, and confidence.
Ready to get started? Let’s take a deep breath—literally.
Step 1: Understand Where the Breath Comes From
When we talk about “supporting the voice,” we’re not talking about breathing into your chest. Try this:
Exercise: Place one hand on your belly and the other on your chest. Breathe in slowly through your nose.
Which hand moved more?
If your chest lifted, try again—but this time, focus on expanding your belly. That’s diaphragmatic breathing, and it’s what singers use to stay grounded and supported.
Step 2: Use Controlled Exhalation
Now that you’re breathing from the right place, let’s add some control.
Exercise: Take a low, full breath and then hiss like a snake: “Sssssss…”
Aim for a steady, even stream of air. This builds core strength and stamina for singing longer phrases without gasping for air.
Step 3: Apply It To Singing
When you sing, think of your breath as the fuel for your sound—not just something you do automatically.
- Start each phrase with a deep breath
- Avoid raising your shoulders
- Use your exhale to carry the sound, not to push or strain
Pro Tip: If your sound feels shaky or breathy, it usually comes back to breath support.
Bonus: Breathing Helps Nerves Too
Breath work isn’t just about sound—it also calms stage jitters. In fact, studies like this one from Harvard Medical School show that controlled breathing helps reduce stress and anxiety, which is huge for singers performing under pressure.
Want More Vocal Tips?
If you’re building your technique from the ground up, our blog on top mistakes beginning singers make is a great next step.
FAQ: Breath Support for Singers
Why do singers need to breathe differently than normal speech?
Singing requires sustained airflow and power—far more than casual speaking. Learning to breathe low and support the voice is essential for healthy singing.
Should I practice breathing every day?
Yes! Just 5 minutes of focused breathing practice can improve your tone, range, and confidence over time.
Can kids learn proper breath support too?
Absolutely. We adapt breathing exercises for every age group—even our youngest singers can learn to breathe “low and slow.”
