One harsh reality about skills is that they are not permanent. If you stop working on something, it will slide — eventually out of reach. Even the ubiquitous adage about riding a bike is only partially true. Anyone who has…
When we are working on specific repertoire, it is tempting to start at the beginning and just run the piece. Even experienced singers can fall into this trap. Perhaps, they even isolate a difficult phrase or transition but then back…
Nothing will prepare you for excellence in a task more than just doing it. Focused practice with some stakes, such as practicing a speech or song in front of friends is great for this. But at some point, you just…
One truth in speaking is that some people are under-rehearsed for their opportunities while others are, or seem, over-rehearsed. What does that even mean? Scenario 1 You need to do a short presentation at a meeting. So, you throw together…
When you are working on improving your speech or singing most of the work happens in private. Hours upon hours can be spent on disrupting a stubborn habit or learning how to craft this or that phrase, just so. You…
As I mentioned in yesterday's post, I exhibited at a convention this week. I did over 100 quick voice assessments and interacted with many more people. The beauty of that environment was the wonderful opportunity that giving hundreds of pitches…
Truly exceptional presenting skills do not just happen. You can learn the skills in coaching, through a class, or maybe a video. Maybe you practice a little in your home or office getting the concepts just right. Then, you go…
This morning I encountered 4 separate articles citing practice as a panacea. I have to admit, I find the pronouncements maddening and I love to practice. The reason I am bothered is that none of these articles, none of them,…
Probably the most frequent complaints in the studio are related to practice. Some of the things I hear are: I don't have time to practice. I don't know what I am supposed to practice. I think I am doing it…