Believe it or not, the weather is a key factor in the success of your singing voice. Dry weather can cause you to have a "dry mouth" or "dry throat." Then there are temperature extremes - from extremely hot to freezing cold temperatures.

The extreme cold weather can cause colds, runny noses, the flu, and sore throat - all hindrances to your singing. The extreme hot weather can cause loss of breath and difficulty when holding long notes. High humidity, high pollen levels, etc. - all these can affect your singing in a negative way!

Moisture and Breathing Problems while Singing

With too much moisture in the air or high pollen levels, you might experience heavier breathing than usual, especially when singing. To help, try taking slow, steady breaths before your singing event. Practice the song through a few times and practice breathing in between lines of the verses. If you practice "when" you will breathe and then think it through as you are performing, you will find it easier to keep your breathing right throughout the song.

Getting air in between lines or after several words of the song will keep the flow of air steady as you are singing and will also eliminate that panicky feeling of heavy breathing.

Extremely Cold - Colds, Flu bugs, Runny Noses and More!

If you are very sick or have a fever then you probably need to cancel your singing event. If you only have a common cold, runny nose, or minor sore throat, there are ways to help your voice and combat these problems. With a runny nose, use nasal spray before singing to clear out any extra mucous.

With a sore throat, use honey and lemon mixtures to help soothe your throat before performing. If possible, take the mixture with you to the event and take a break to use the solution half way through the performance when singing multiple songs. In case of an emergency, find some soothing cough drops with honey and lemon. If your throat is severely sore and it hurts to swallow, try postponing your singing event until it feels better.

With a stuffy nose, use a humidifier the night before near your bed. There are also medicines to help clear the nasal passages such as Vicks (TM) vapor rub.

Itchy Throat Syndrome

When you have an itchy throat, the dreaded coughs when singing can be torment! Avoid eating or drinking items that make your throat dry on the day you are to perform. Drink plenty of liquids to keep your vocal cords lubricated. While singing, avoid breathing in through your mouth if possible. When dry air hits a dry throat, the "itch" happens! Breathe in through your nose between lines of your song. Practice doing this beforehand so you won't feel awkward.

To protect your vocal cords, try these tips:

* Practice singing in the shower for added moisture.

* Drink plenty of water each day.

* Keep a humidifier on hand.

* Limit dairy product intake on the day of your performance.

* Add lemon to your water.

* Use honey regularly to soothe your throat.

These singing tips will help you to be more prepared the next time you run into bad weather.