So, you’re a phenomenal transgender woman on a journey to refine your voice and express yourself authentically. That’s fierce! But voice training can feel like a practice session with a drill sergeant at times. Fear not, femme fatale! Let’s infuse some fun into your routine with the magic of music.
Singing along to your favorite tunes isn’t just for shower concerts (though, diva moments are highly encouraged). Music can be a powerful tool to enhance your vocal training and unleash your inner rockstar.
Why Music Makes a Mighty Mentor
Music provides a captivating soundscape to guide your voice. It sets a tempo and pitch, encouraging you to match and experiment. Unlike scales and monotone exercises, music is engaging, keeping you motivated and making those practice sessions fly by.
Here’s how your favorite jams can become your vocal BFFs:
- Finding Your Range: Pop and belting anthems like Lady Gaga’s “Shallow” or P!nk’s “Get the Party Started” will push your upper range. Ease into it, though, and focus on smooth transitions rather than raw power.
- Befriending Breath Control: Calmer melodies with long, sustained notes, like Adele’s “Someone Like You” or Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You,” are excellent for breath control practice. Hold those notes with confidence, feeling the support from your diaphragm.
- Mastering Pitch: Songs with clear, distinct melodies, like oldies or classic Disney tunes, are fantastic for refining pitch. Think “Let It Go” from Frozen or Dusty Springfield’s “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me.”
- Articulation All-Star: Upbeat tunes with crisp, fast lyrics, like rap or Broadway show tunes, can help with articulation. Think Nicki Minaj’s “Super Bass” (minus the rap, focus on the singing parts) or anything from a Sondheim musical.
But Wait, There’s More!
Music isn’t a magic bullet, but it’s a powerful companion. Here are some tips to supercharge your musical voice training sessions:
- Warm Up Wisely: Just like athletes, your voice needs a warm-up. Do some lip trills and gentle hums before diving into belting like Beyonce.
- Listen Actively: Pay close attention to the melody, the way the singer phrases words, and their breath control. Mimic what you hear, but prioritize healthy technique over raw power.
- Record Yourself (Optional): This might feel scary at first, but recording yourself singing allows you to identify areas for improvement. Don’t let what you initially hear demotivate you; instead, concentrate on the progress over time.
- It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint: Be patient with yourself. Voice training takes time and dedication. Celebrate small victories and enjoy the journey of discovering your unique voice.
Now Let’s Get This Party Started: A Sample Playlist
Here’s a starter playlist to get you going. Remember, this is just a jumping-off point. Explore different genres and find what resonates with you!
Breath Control Bellas:
- “I Will Always Love You” – Whitney Houston
- “Someone Like You” – Adele
- “My Heart Will Go On” – Celine Dion (Yes, it’s cheesy, but powerful for breath control!)
Pitch Perfect Picks:
- “Let It Go” – Idina Menzel (Frozen)
- “Can’t Help Falling in Love” – Elvis Presley
- “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” – Marilyn Monroe (Classic with clear pitch)
Range Royalty:
- “Shallow” – Lady Gaga (Start easy and build up to those high notes!)
- “Don’t Stop Believin'” – Journey
- “I Will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor
Articulation Aces:
- “Super Bass” – Nicki Minaj (Focus on the singing parts, not the rap)
- “Anything You Can Do” (from Annie Get Your Gun)
- “Rapper’s Delight” – The Sugarhill Gang (For the brave – fast-paced and clear)
The Bottom Line
Voice training may feel like an uphill climb at times, and that’s perfectly valid. There might be days when you feel frustrated or like your voice just won’t cooperate. Remember, even the most celebrated divas had those moments! Be kind to yourself as you navigate this process.
Music is a tool, not a magic wand. Progress comes from consistent practice, celebrating small victories, and embracing the unique beauty of your vocal journey. Your voice is a powerful reflection of who you are; be proud of your courage to shape it into the authentic expression of your fabulous self.
So, put on those headphones, crank up those songs, and channel your inner rockstar. Your true voice is waiting to shine through, and the world deserves to hear it!
