How to Stop Your Voice from Trembling on Stage (Even When You Feel Anxious Inside)

Have you ever stepped on stage, ready to sing, only to feel your voice start shaking? In this episode, you’ll discover simple, effective tools that will help you keep your voice steady (even if you’re feeling nervous inside). These strategies will give you the confidence to sing with strength and freedom, no matter what’s going on internally.

Why Suppressing Nerves Doesn’t Work

One of the biggest mistakes singers make is trying to push away their nerves or hoping anxiety will magically disappear before a performance. Stress and nerves are actually a natural part of the process. The key isn’t to eliminate them—it’s learning how to manage them so you can stay grounded in your power. If you simply suppress those feelings, your body may go into panic mode: shallow breathing, shaky voice, and a spiral of insecurity.

Breaking the Vicious Cycle

When your breath gets stuck, your voice trembles. And when your voice trembles, you panic more, making things even worse. Many singers try to “hold on” tighter—pushing harder or getting louder—but this only creates tension and makes the trembling worse. Instead, the solution is about releasing, working with your breath, and finding balance in your airflow.

Step One: Use SOVT Exercises

A powerful way to steady your voice is to use SOVT (Semi-Occluded Vocal Tract) exercises before stepping on stage. These include tools like a singing straw, a Lax Vox tube, or even simple sounds like “vvv” or “ng.” When you do these, two streams of air meet—one flowing out and one flowing back in—creating a balance that feels like a gentle vocal massage. This helps release tension, regulate your airflow, and keep your voice stable and supported.

Step Two: Allow Your Body to Move

Another common mistake singers make is trying to stay perfectly still on stage. While it might look composed, holding your body rigid actually traps your nerves and breath. Instead, allow movement—before and during your performance. Dance backstage, shake out the nerves, or let the rhythm of the song flow through your shoulders and steps. Then, balance that movement with moments of stillness, grounding yourself again with deep, diaphragmatic breaths.

Finding Balance Between Technique and Expression

When you combine vocal exercises, nervous system regulation, and authentic expression, your voice becomes strong, reliable, and free. Singing isn’t just about technique—it’s about working with your body and emotions so that your voice can shine even in moments of vulnerability. These two tools—SOVT exercises and body movement—are a starting point that can transform your singing experience.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re a passionate singer, and you're struggling with hoarseness, tension or straining while singing, despite your best effort to sing certain vocal exercises or try to copy the sound of the original artist, I'd like to show you how to sing powerful high notes and expand your range without any straining, tension or hoarseness so that you can sing all of your favorite songs easily and effortlessly. Even if you typically struggle to practice and train your voice because of a lack of time because you might have other responsibilities (like a job or kids!).
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