In this new series of voice articles, some of the questions submitted by singers will be addressed. Have a voice question you always wanted to ask? Email your questions to bonavoxmusic@yahoo.com and the question might be featured in future articles. (Your privacy will be respected and your name will not be mentioned if you desire.)

1. I was told that cough drops are bad for singers. Is that true?

Cough drops should only be used when you have a really bad cold and cough. Yes they numb the pain; however that is a major problem for singers. If a singer does not feel the pain, they will tend to over sing, which can lead, to laryngitis, vocal nodules and other vocal problems. Many singers constantly use cough drops to soothe their sore throat; however many ingredients especially methnol in cough drops dry out and irritate the vocal cords.

2. After each rehearsal and performance, my voice is sore. What is the best thing to take?

It depends if you just want a short term solution or a long term solution. For short term see the answer for question number three. For long term solution, your voice is sore due to misuse. If one is serious about their singing career, then a proactive singer’s lifestyle becomes top priority. Study with a well-rounded vocal instructor that will train your voice properly. Musicians invest huge amounts of money when it comes to buying equipment and gear yet neglect their voice. If money is an issue, take a vocal class at your local college.
Use earplugs. Earplugs will help one not strain and over sing because one can't hear on stage or at practice. Silicone earplugs are reusable, inexpensive and discrete.

3. What should a singer use when they have a sore throat?
If you have a sore throat, use the following:

Humidifiers.
Humidifiers provide the moisture the vocal cords need when the voice is tired, overused, dried out, hoarse and plagued with colds, allergies and sore throat.

Acetaminophen.
The brand name for Acetaminophen is Tylenol, which helps with throat inflammation.

Slippery Elm Bark, Black Licorice, Natural Lemon Drops.
These are natural products that provide soothing sore throat relief.

ORDER YOUR PROFESSIONAL SINGER’S SURVIVIAL KIT (for
dry, hoarse, tired voice) and SILICONE EARPLUGS TODAY!
For ordering information, vocal information, upcoming
workshops, voice lessons, performances, email
bonavoxmusic@yahoo.com. For biography information, visit
http://www.citrusarts.org/music/vm/vmbios.html#ipraniuk