Vibrato in Singing: Tips and Exercises for Beginners
I typically tell my students that vibrato is the natural byproduct of relaxed and supported vocals. There are many different exercises to help you achieve vibrato in your singing and in more than 20 years of teaching I have found that vibrato can be triggered in different ways for different people. I also believe you are what you eat! Meaning- if you listen to singers that sing with a lot of vibrato then you are more likely to sing with a lot of vibrato (more on that below). Review the following tips below and try the free exercise video linked below.
1. Pulse the Diaphragm Muscle
Stand or sit with good posture and take a deep breath, engaging your diaphragm. Then sing a sustained note and gently pulse your diaphragm in a regular rhythm to create a controlled oscillation in pitch or amplitude. Use the sound ‘hee’. I included a video below where this is used!
2. Pitch Variation Exercises
Practice singing scales, gradually adding a slight, controlled oscillation to your tone. The best one which I use frequently in one on one classes I call “Jaws” after the movie which centers around half step movements. Focus on maintaining an even and consistent vibrato as you move up and down the scale with your jaw released.
3. Breath Support
Strengthening your breath support is crucial for controlling vibrato. Practice exercises that improve your ability to sustain steady airflow, such as sustained notes with dynamic changes in volume.
4. Lip Trills
Perform lip trills or "lip bubbles" while maintaining a steady pitch. This can help you engage your support muscles and practice oscillation naturally. Once comfortable, try adding a slight vibrato while keeping the trill steady. To practice lip trilsl with my video, click HERE.
5. Metronome Practice
Yikes! Metronome?? Yes! Absolutely. If you want to fine tune your vibrato, this will definitely help. Use a metronome to practice consistent vibrato speed. Start with a slow setting and match the rhythmic pulsing of your vibrato to the beat. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable while staying consistent. Use the same ‘hee’ sound as mentioned above.
6. Mirror and Recording Review
Sing with vibrato in front of a mirror or record yourself to observe your technique. Be aware of any unnecessary tension in your jaw, throat, or shoulders, and consciously relax these areas.
7. Singing with a Narrow Range
Start singing with just slight intonation variations (a narrow pitch range) until you're comfortable with the sensation. Gradually widen the variation to develop a fuller vibrato. Jaws exercise is a good example of this.
8. Listening and Mimicking
- Listen to singers known for their excellent vibrato control and try to mimic their vibrato style while understanding your natural limits and abilities. You are what you eat!
Practice, Practice, Practice! Do you want one on one help working out your vibrato? Sign up for a lesson today: