Advice on singing

[Disney Babe]

I'm seeking advice from some of you trained singers out there. I have taken voice lessons, but it's been a long time. I don't sing right now, except when I go to church and for pleasure to the radio. I enjoy swing tunes and standards. Okay, so here is what I want to know. When I want to sing a note I'm holding a little longer or stronger, the top back of my mouth gets to feeling like I am about to cough. Does anyone know what causes this and how I can exercise to stop it or should I try singing past it? Thanks!

[chelsealela]

Do you do little warm up before you start really singing? Like humming or some simple syllables up the scale? Always warm up before you do some serious singing. If you don't practice these precautions you can really do some damage to your voice. So be very careful. For your situation I'd suggest to drink ALOT of water...well always and do so before you begin to sing, and remember to breath if you really need to before those bigger notes!

Is it a tickling feeling you are getting in your mouth? If so that is natural, but I don't think it should be happening all the time.

It may sound silly but I always yawn a few times before I sing. My teacher also makes me scream (not scream, but hollar into a wall a few times. I yell "Hey there" and it has to be your loudest to get the full effect of your voice). That helps me reduce bad sound and dryness in my mouth which may cause cough. It also strengthens the diaphragm!

[Sesshomaru-sama]

Lilian Garcia, a former World Wrestling Entertainment RAW announcer, has given advice to all inspiring singers in a special issue of World Wrestling Entertainment Magazine. She has an amazing and strong voice. I was amazed when I first heard her. Here's what she said:

How To Prep Your Throat For Singing
"Don't drink caffeine before singing or announcing, because it dries up the throat. There's a caffeine-free tea called Throat Coat that I like. Also, stay away from anything with menthol; that causes the same problem. You want to maintain a lot of saliva in your mouth." -Lilian Garcia

Sincerely, a brother of a half-demon,
Sesshomaru-sama

[Disney Babe]

Thanks guys. Keep those suggestions coming cuz I love them!

Yeah, it's like a tickeling - a strong tickeling. I would say that you hit the nail on the head.

I don't really think of warming up, since it's basically singing along with the choir in church and to radio or cds. But that is a really good idea because, especially in church, I can get kind of serious about singing and want to do my best. (Don't you just love the sounds your voice can make?) I do think of breathing correctly. But I don't often practice. I should because it helps in all circumstances, whether singing, relaxing, exercising, talking. Thanks for reminding me.

[chelsealela]

Yes, warming up is crucial. You could even take time when you are getting ready for church in the morning if sounding really good is important to you. Every morning I do a warm up, even if I'm singing or not. haha. I have to be serious because I sing in the chancel choir at my church and I want to sound my best.
And no problem!

Tickeling is normal. Don't drink caffeine, drink lots of water.