Voice over artists need to take care of their voices just as much as athletes take care of their bodies. The voice is a muscle, and like all muscles, it needs to be exercised and strengthened in order to perform at its best. In this article, we will explore some breathing and voice exercises that voice over artists can use to improve their vocal skills.

The Importance of Breathing for Voice Over Artists

Voice over artists rely on their voice to convey emotions, convey information, and tell stories. In order to do this effectively, they need to have control over their breath. Proper breathing is essential for good vocal technique, and it is the foundation for all voice exercises.

Diaphragmatic Breathing

Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as “belly breathing,” is the most efficient way to breathe for voice over artists. This type of breathing involves using the diaphragm, a muscle located at the base of the lungs, to control the flow of air in and out of the lungs.

To practice diaphragmatic breathing, lie down on your back and place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly. Take a deep breath in through your nose, allowing your belly to rise as you fill your lungs with air. As you exhale, release the air slowly and let your belly fall. Repeat this exercise for several minutes, focusing on keeping your chest still and allowing your diaphragm to do the work.

Breath Control Exercises

In addition to diaphragmatic breathing, voice over artists can also practice exercises to improve their breath control. This can include things like lip trills, humming, and sirens.

To do a lip trill, purse your lips and make a “brrr” sound as you exhale. This exercise helps to strengthen the muscles in the lips and improve breath control.

Humming is another great exercise for breath control. Start by humming a low note and gradually increase the pitch as you exhale.

Sirens can also be used to improve breath control. This exercise involves making a “woooo” sound as you exhale, starting on a low note and gradually increasing the pitch.

Voice Exercises for Voice Over Artists

In addition to breathing exercises, voice over artists can also practice exercises to improve their vocal technique. These exercises can help to strengthen the vocal cords, improve pitch and tone, and increase range.

Vocal Warm-Ups

Vocal warm-ups are an essential part of any voice over artist’s routine. These exercises can include things like lip trills, humming, and sirens.

To do a lip trill, purse your lips and make a “brrr” sound as you exhale. This exercise helps to warm up the muscles in the lips and prepare them for voice work.

Humming is another great exercise for warming up the voice. Start by humming a low note and gradually increase the pitch as you exhale.

Sirens can also be used as a vocal warm-up. This exercise involves making a “woooo” sound as you exhale, starting on a low note and gradually increasing the pitch.

Vocal Strengthening Exercises

Vocal strengthening exercises can help to improve the overall quality of the voice. These exercises can include things like scales, arpeggios, and lip trills.

Scales and arpeggios are exercises that involve singing a series of notes in a specific pattern. These exercises can help to improve pitch and tone and increase range.

Lip trills can also be used as a vocal strengthening exercise. To do a lip trill, purse your lips and make a “brrr” sound as you exhale. This exercise helps to strengthen the muscles in the lips and improve the overall quality of the voice.

Voice Projection and Articulation Exercises

Voice projection and articulation are important skills for voice over artists. These exercises can help to improve clarity, diction, and overall vocal expression.

One exercise to improve voice projection is to stand in front of a mirror and practice projecting your voice while maintaining good posture. Keep your shoulders back and your chest lifted, and focus on projecting your voice from your diaphragm.

Articulation exercises can include things like tongue twisters and lip trills. Tongue twisters are phrases that are difficult to say quickly and clearly. Lip trills can also be used to improve articulation by strengthening the muscles in the lips.

Conclusion

Voice over artists rely on their voice to convey emotions, convey information, and tell stories. In order to do this effectively, they need to have control over their breath and their vocal technique. By incorporating breathing and voice exercises into their routine, voice over artists can improve their vocal skills and take their performance to the next level. Remember to always start with a warm-up, practice consistently and listen to your own voice to know what works best for you.