Hi. I'm doing Drama in school and I just have this horrid problem with my voice. It's like my diaphragm doesn't exist or something. We do have regular voice lessons but I can just feel that if it isn't the throat it's the chest voice. I've tried so many ways (including shouting from buildings and online lessons) but my voice is still high, unsupported and nasal. Any ideas? Is it possible to be never be able to project properly simply because one is born with a weak voice? Thanks in advance.

Do you do a lot of dance? Many dancers have an issue with not being able to relax their neck muscles fully from constantly pulling up. This results in the high position of the larynx and an inability for the shortener-dominant muscles (which add depth of tone and power) to take control of the vocal chords. You also may be cutting off your resonating chambers.

I think you need a few one-on-one lessons either with a singing teacher or a speech therapist as the group lessons in your class aren't helping you identify the source nor adjust your technique.

And for what it's worth, shouting from buildings is just going to make your hoarse, not improve projection.

Helen

I agree with Helen. You need a private vocal coach - even if it's just for an hour or two. Yes, you might have a naturally thin voice, but proper breath support will improve your tone, pitch and control as well as your dynamic range. If you don't know a good coach, just call the music department at your local university and ask them to recommend someone.

Side note - when my voice teacher didn't like my breath support, she'd punch me in the stomach. I do not advise this, but it definitely made me think about my breathing.

Dear Helen and Panic,

Thanks so much for the advice. Yes, I dance a lot and used to do a lot of intense ballet.
You guys really helped a lot, thanks a lot!!!