A special note about this week’s podcast: typically, we post an audio-only podcast, but this week, I loaded the full video to this website because I think it’s important to see Alexis as he demonstrates some of these vocal exercises, and to understand the relationship the voice and the vocal cords have to the entire body. I hope you enjoy this episode, and I want to challenge you all to extract at least three things from Alexis’ vocal habits that you’ll immediately start implementing to maximize your vocal quality.
Today’s PXPU Podcast guest is Alexis Alfaro, a professional opera singer and a professional rugby referee based out of San Diego, California. He joins us today to discuss the importance of getting the most out of your vocal performance as a part of the list of different skills you work on as a broadcaster.
Here are notes from the podcast and some links Alexis has shared to help with warming up your pipes before a broadcast:
1) I would say understand the ideas and concepts of why you are warming up and what spaces, alignments and connections you are unlocking...
2) Say these words and understand how sounds physically (Physics) align in your mouth.
“Beet" is the top front, “Boot" is the top back, etc. Say them on one breath and feel the air move to different spaces and sound.
3) Then do easy warm-ups so your body can create muscle memory.
Broadcasters and Vocal Training
1) Key Things Broadcasters Need to Know About Vocal Training
Understanding Anatomy and Physics of the Voice:
Learn how the vocal cords function and how sound is produced.
Understand resonance and how to create the most space for efficient sound production.
Some individuals naturally have resonance but lack awareness of how it works.
Daily Exercises for Awareness and Mastery:
Consistent vocal exercises build freedom, efficiency, and ease in speaking.
Awareness of breath control, posture, and vocal placement is crucial.
2) How to Do Warm-Ups
Adopt an Athletic and Healthy Mentality:
Approach vocal training like an athlete: distinguish between "game days" (live broadcasts) and "training days" (practice sessions).
Warm-ups should be dynamic, focusing on gradual stretching of the vocal range.
Pacing and Rest:
Emphasize recovery through sleep, massage, relaxation, hydration, nutrition and soothing beverages like hot tea with honey.
3) How to Project Without Losing Your Voice
Preparation and Practice:
Regularly stretch your vocal range during training to understand your limits.
Familiarize your body with high-energy scenarios to ensure your voice responds under pressure.
Game-Time Execution:
Controlled breathing and vocal placement prevent cracking or strain during excited moments.
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