Let’s Talk About Breathing
By Marion Rouvas — Director & Vocal Coach, Voiceology Australia
In my opinion, breathing is one of the most misunderstood — and overcomplicated — parts of singing.
The truth is…
Less is more.
The only real difference between speaking and singing a note is airflow.
The sooner singers understand that, the easier singing becomes.
Try this:
Say naturally:
“Hi, how are you?”
Notice how relaxed and effortless that feels.
Now stretch the words out:
“Hiiiiii… Hooow arrrre yooouuuu…”
That’s singing.
We simply elongate speech using controlled airflow.
It should still feel natural.
Still feel easy.
Still feel free.
The Way You Breathe In Determines the Sound You Make
Don’t breathe as if it’s your last breath.
Breathe as if you’re about to speak.
Too many singers take in enormous breaths, tighten the stomach, lock the ribs, and try to “hold” the diaphragm in place.
This usually creates more tension, more pressure, and less freedom in the voice.
Remember:
The diaphragm’s job is simply to move out of the way so the lungs can expand naturally — exactly the same way they do when you’re asleep.
Your body already knows how to breathe.
The goal is not to force it…
The goal is to stop interfering with it.
A Simple Exercise to Feel Natural Breathing
Sit on a chair and lean forward slightly with your elbows resting on your knees.
Now simply breathe in…
and breathe out.
Notice how the air naturally drops deeper into the body.
Stay in that position and place one hand on your side ribs.
Feel the rib cage gently expand and release.
That’s the same calm, natural feeling we want when standing to sing:
• Head and eyes forward
• Shoulders relaxed
• Feet shoulder-width apart
And then simply…
Breathe in.
Breathe out.
Sing.
Your brain already tells the body what to do.
Trust the process.
The voice works far better with ease than with force.
As I always say:
“He who breathes well, sings well.” ✨
Till next time —
Happy singing!
Marion Rouvas
Director & Vocal Coach
Voiceology Australia
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