"Stand up straight." "You can't sing well when you are slouching." "Please do not put your weight on only one leg."

     These are comments every vocalist has probably heard many times. They address one of the basic issues related to singing - the form of the body position during vocalization. If you are tiring of saying (or hearing) such comments and desire to achieve greater results from your instruction, it may be beneficial to incorporate some new 'tricks'.

     First, it is necessary for vocalists to experience how the voice works in the desirable posture as well as the undesirable. Why would a vocalist choose to sit up if they don't know how much more difficult it is for the voice to do its job when slouching?

     Secondly, questions work wonders. "I wonder how your sound will change if you stand firmly on both feet," may achieve the goal of balancing weight on both legs without moving towards a negative comment of what the vocalist is doing incorrectly. In addition, it takes the student out of the defense mode he/she may experience when told for the 19th time about standing incorrectly.

     Third, incorporate movement of the arms, legs and body into vocal rehearsals and lessons. Movement will assist the body in keeping the form desired, as well as the focus of the student. He/she will be actively engaged in the activity.

     Lastly, provide the student with a reference point from which to operate. Standing as you would in preparation to shoot a basket easily helps provide a reference for foot position and weight distribution. Reaching up to the stars and slowly dropping the arms down (like making a snow angel) will provide students a clear reference for the desired upper body positioning.

     Be creative in explaining and encouraging efficient posture. If what you are doing isn't working, be adventurous and try something unique. Experimentation can result in a wonderful adventure!