If you’ve ever wondered why some singers improve faster than others, here’s the secret: it’s not just about what you do in your lessons—it’s about what happens between them. And no, it doesn’t mean singing for hours on end. It’s about practicing smarter, not harder.
Why Short Sessions Work Best for Practicing In Between Voice Lessons
Here’s the deal: short practice sessions (10–15 minutes) are way more effective than singing non-stop for an hour. Think of it like working out. Would you do 100 push-ups without taking a break? Probably not, because your form would tank, and you’d strain muscles you weren’t even trying to use.
Your vocal cords are muscles too, and they need breaks. Long, unfocused sessions can lead to fatigue, and before you know it, you’re using the wrong muscles around your larynx (voice box) instead of building the right coordination. Practicing in between voice lessons with short, focused sessions lets you work smart and avoid bad habits.
Build on Your Last Lesson
Every practice session should focus on one thing you worked on during your last voice lesson. If you’re working on your chest voice, spend those 10–15 minutes on exercises that strengthen that area. The same goes for mix or head voice. Stay in your lane, and don’t try to tackle everything at once.
Learn from the Pros: Adele’s Practice Philosophy
Adele is a perfect example of how smart practice can lead to incredible results. She’s known for her powerful, emotional performances, but behind the scenes, she puts in serious work. Adele credits her success to consistent vocal warm-ups and focusing on her breath control.
She uses breathing exercises to help her sing long, powerful notes while maintaining control and avoiding strain. This kind of intentional practice isn’t about spending hours—it’s about laser-focused effort. Adele's Practice Philosophy
Practice Like a Pro
There’s a great TED Talk by Annie Bosler and Don Greene that dives into the science of effective practice. They explain why focused practice, with rest breaks in between, helps your brain and muscles retain what you’re working on. It’s all about quality over quantity.
Why You Shouldn’t Overdo It
If you’re tempted to practice for an hour straight, let me stop you. Here’s why that’s not a great idea: as you keep going, fatigue sets in. That’s when your form slips, and you risk building the wrong habits—like engaging the muscles around your larynx instead of the ones you need for proper vocal control.
Keep it simple:
Practice for 10–15 minutes.
Take a 5-minute break.
Come back refreshed and ready to focus again.
Break It Down Like Reps at the Gym
Here’s a simple way to structure your practice in between voice lessons:
Warm up (always!).
Practice for 10–15 minutes on one specific thing (like chest voice, vibrato, or phrasing).
Take a 5-minute break.
Repeat if you feel up to it.
This method keeps your voice fresh and your focus sharp.
FAQs About Practicing in Between Voice Lessons
❓ How often should I practice?
A few short sessions a day is ideal. Even one or two sessions can make a difference if they’re focused and intentional.
❓ Can I sing for fun outside of practice?
Absolutely! Just keep an ear out for bad habits creeping in, like straining or pushing your voice too hard.
❓ What’s the best way to avoid strain?
Warm up first, take breaks, and listen to your body. If something feels off, stop and reevaluate.
❓ How do I know if I’m practicing correctly?
Record yourself and listen back. Compare it to what you worked on in your lesson, and ask your coach for feedback if you’re unsure.
The bottom line?
Practicing in between voice lessons doesn’t have to be a marathon. Short, focused sessions, like the kind Adele swears by, can help you see real improvement without overworking your voice. Stay consistent, stay focused, and give yourself room to grow.
At my studio in Roseville, I work with singers of all levels to develop the voice techniques used by the best in the industry. My goal is to help you build confidence, strengthen your voice, and maintain vocal health while mastering your unique sound. Whether you’re in the greater Sacramento area or looking for singing lessons online, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
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