Why Vocal Health Matters

As singers, our voices are our instruments, and during cold and flu season, they need extra care. I was recently reminded of this the hard way — I'm recovering from a cold while dealing with vocal fatigue after putting in long hours of practice. It's easy to get caught up in rehearsals and performances, but our voices don't have an endless reserve. They need rest, care, and balance just like the rest of us.

Hydration is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your voice; warm water and herbal tea are my go-to options. In the music department, you could see more student water bottles than anywhere else on campus! Rest is equally important; it gives both your body and your vocal cords the recovery time they need. Using a humidifier can also help, especially with the dry indoor air that comes with colder months. I also use an iodine saline nasal spray to help combat bacteria and viruses that can enter our bodies through our nasal passages. Another piece of sound advice to follow is to resist the urge to push your voice over a crowd when you're in a noisy environment — it only adds unnecessary strain.

What I'm learning is that being disciplined in practicing vocal health is just as crucial as being disciplined in practicing music. Permitting yourself to rest, taking breaks, and listening to your body isn't a weakness — it's wisdom. A healthy singer will always sing with more freedom, expression, and joy. This season, let's all remember that caring for our voices means giving them the best chance to shine, both now and in the future.