Taylee. Summary: The idea of breathing simply continues on the idea of our "naked voice". Simple breathing promotes a natural and free sensation. By controlling/manipulating our breath we are preventing it from being fully effective. Healthy inspiration throws vanity out the window, as it means we must allow our gut to expand as the diaphragm contracts. The most effective breathe is one that is deeper in the body. Another factor in achieving an effective inhale is proper alignment in the body. Without it, the breath is not able to enter the body freely. Upon exhalation, we must focus on the importance of release. When the diaphragm releases, it will naturally ascend, thus expelling the air from our lungs through pressure displacement. It does this without our helping it along. This lack of control allows the body to remain relaxed and ready for the next effortless inhale.
Key Terms: Inspiration. Alexander Technique. Release.
Key Concepts: The more simply we think about breathing, the better we will do it. Proper alignment is absolutely necessary for free-flowing breath. Sound should float on sound, as a ping-pong floats atop a fountain of water: The constant flow of air is what buoys the sound!
Making Connections: I really liked the concept of releasing the breath. I especially liked the visual of the ping-pong ball. However, actually applying this concept in singing is entirely different and will take a lot of effort. I tend to have a LOT of tension in my back and shoulders, thus inhibiting the freedom necessary to have proper inspiration and expiration. Thinking on the spot in the chapter where he talks about strong muscles, he emphasized the ability to relax and stretch them as the true goal. I think maybe I need to work on my flexibility in order to let myself relax so that my muscles can stretch as he suggests.
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