tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3868324144083397262024-03-14T10:43:28.860-04:00Finding Your Voiceby Jennifer Hamady <br><a href="http://www.jenniferhamady.com/"><u>www.FindingYourVoice.com</u></a>Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.comBlogger118125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-27870052366021044212018-01-07T08:02:00.000-05:002020-01-21T14:36:40.444-05:00Happy New Year!<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is to a great year and beyond! P</span><span style="font-size: large;">lease visit </span><a href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com./" style="font-size: x-large;">FindingYourVoice.com</a> <span style="font-size: large;">for my latest articles and information about workshops and coachings in the US and abroad. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Looking forward to seeing you there soon!</span><br />
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<br />Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-12105914904637735652017-04-25T11:09:00.005-04:002017-10-03T10:34:41.095-04:00New Website, New Article, and New Interview<div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2017 has gotten off to an awesome start. Finally, my new website is up and running! Come visit, share a comment, and share with your friends. I can't wait to hear what you think! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com/" target="_blank">www.FindingYourVoice.com </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I've received some great feedback on my latest article for Psychology Today, entitled: "<a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/finding-your-voice/201704/why-i-sing" target="_blank">Why I Sing</a>". I hope you enjoy it as well. </span></div>
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<a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/finding-your-voice/201704/why-i-sing" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigujPMFuSdRUcLYpXcZR0b8ZlHITezaoxJvBsMnQJf7AiB7dRQAZTvhiiO-4jkGFakOVxNDNU9dWg68WvQjKASO-MJTI_usJ4XKHtpF4Im9DTkACEFe9Lo_1Do08UhkO8bwTc7bO_zcMdh/s400/Screen+Shot+2017-04-25+at+11.07.51+AM.png" width="341" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Lastly, Daisy de Boevere, a voice coach in Belgium, <a href="http://findingyourvoice.com/music-magic-singing/">recently interviewed me</a> on my practice, books, and philosophy. It was a wonderful conversation. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Best wishes to everyone; looking forward to connecting with you on</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com/">www.FindingYourVoice.com</a>!</span></div>
Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-39114615848097252542017-03-27T09:42:00.002-04:002017-03-28T09:03:33.331-04:00The Triple Threat <div class="p1">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span class="s1"><a href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com/">In my practice</a></span><span class="s2">, I work with a number of Broadway dancers who think that they can’t sing or act. Which poses a real problem in an industry where being a 'triple threat'– having all three skills– is valuable. There are certainly plenty of dancing roles in theater, yet dancers who sing work a great deal more.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The same is true of many singers. Their focus is on their voices, with dancing an afterthought and occasional requirement. And it’s not always pleasant one; I hear the constant woes of auditions not attended and roles not landed thanks to the dreaded ‘singers who dance’ casting specification.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The problem isn’t limited to the theater. I’ve recently been working with a spoken word artist who, about to record her next record, would like to sing on a song or two. Trouble is, she’s convinced she can’t. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Certainly we all have our specific talents. And things like experience, comfort, and accomplishment reinforce what comes to each of us more naturally. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">But there’s more to it than that. In many of these cases, contrary to desire and even results, it’s not that these men and women can’t be as great at other things. Rather, they don’t necessarily feel that they have a right to be. To have their cake and eat it too, while desirable, just doesn’t seem possible.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2mIeJDS">Gay Hendricks</a></span><span class="s2" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> calls this way of thinking an ‘upper limits problem’. He proposes that we each have an internal thermostat that is set to a certain amount of joy, love, success, and intimacy. When we go above that, even in the most positive of ways, fear and familiarity cause us to do something to pull ourselves back down to where we’re comfortable, even if we’re not happy or thriving there. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This problem shows up for singers this way: “I’m good enough to sing on Broadway, but who am I to assume that I can also dance and act that well?”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To that question I ask another: "Why do you automatically assume that you can't?" The idea that you can only be great at one thing is simply untrue. Does it make sense to say you can’t be a great listener and a great cook? A great friend and a great parent? Nonsense! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Yet when it comes to certain things, particularly what we call ‘talents’, our culture tells us– in subtle and not so subtle ways– that you really only get one great gift, one great shot. And that to want or aspire to anything more is arrogant and foolhardy. "Jack of all trades, master of none" is as much as a warning as it is a description.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The fear of failure arises anytime we strive to achieve something... particularly something new, something at which we haven't always considered ourselves talented. It takes courage to put ourselves out there in the world, and even more, to risk a reputation of greatness by attempting something at which we might not be fantastic. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The men and women I coach have worked very hard to be the best in the performance field. O</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ften, it’s been a long time since they were anywhere other than at the top of their games and the peak of the learning curves. And the thought of going back to any other spot isn’t attractive.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Yet on the curve is where the magic is. Humility isn’t the avoidance of something you’re not an expert at, something you believe that others do better. Real humility is about embracing opportunities that excite you with a commitment to learn and grow. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The next time you’re presented with such an opportunity in your life, I encourage you to grab it and give it your all. Stretch and challenge yourself, do your best, and enjoy the ride. </span></span></div>
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Click here to learn about </i><a href="http://amzn.to/1RJ1HtW" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span class="s1"><i>The Art of Singing series</i></span></a><i style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">, which explores the psychology of sining and self-expression. </i></span><i style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </i></div>
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</style>Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-15299443302742809702017-01-25T12:54:00.002-05:002017-01-25T12:55:31.589-05:00Are You Good Enough? <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One of my singers auditioned for The Voice last week, and did an amazing job. She sang her heart out and felt fantastic
about herself and her performance, and I couldn’t be more proud of her. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Before she went, however, she was
filled with doubt and emailed to ask whether she should go through with it. Was
she good enough? Was she better than those who’ve been on the show? Was it all worth
it? What if she didn’t make it; what if she ‘failed’?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
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We all ask these questions of ourselves… are we worthy? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will we hit the mark we’ve been aiming
for?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Should we bother?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
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Here’s what I wrote back to Sabrina. And I hope it will help you as much as it
encouraged her to give up the doubt and hop on the plane!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">~~~~~<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sabrina, do you have any idea how
hard you’ve worked and how far you’ve come?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How incredible you sound and how much you’ve gained as a singer and an
artist and a performer these past few months?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I couldn't be more thrilled for or proud of you. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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We can <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">always</i> find people we think
are better than us. Even the greatest singers in the world can find someone
against whom they don’t think they compare. Should they then stop singing?
Is that the point… to be ‘the best’? What does that even mean!?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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You have to ask yourself… why am I auditioning, and more… <i>why do I sing</i>?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why did you make your CD? Why are you
going to Nashville to audition for The Voice? Is it to be ‘the best’ or
‘to win’?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If so, you might find yourself
frustrated even if you succeed, because these are<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>standards against which none of
us can ever measure up. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If, on the other hand, you’re auditioning–
and singing and making music in general– because you want to challenge yourself
to be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">your best</i>, then not only will
you enjoy the ride, but you'll continue to grow, including beyond where you once
thought possible. And if you frame winning as accomplishing your goals and
dreams with grace, persistence, and an open mind and humble heart, you will <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">always</i> be successful. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When you doubt yourself– and we
all do from time to time– go ahead and listen to ‘that voice’. Sometimes
it has wisdom for us… have we practiced enough? Are we working hard enough, caring for ourselves enough, and
challenging ourselves in the right ways? Take that wisdom in and apply it, and
then get back to getting ready for a wonderful adventure, both in terms of this
audition and all along your musical journey!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com/" target="_blank">www.FindingYourVoice.com</a></span></span></div>
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Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-18941163929579714042016-12-07T15:08:00.002-05:002016-12-07T15:15:51.106-05:00Emotions, Vocal Freedom, and Technical Issues<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yet another wonderful series of questions from one of my great singers. I hope that you find our conversation helpful! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>I’m finding as I’m doing the vocal exercises and becoming more aware of my body (and as I move toward the audition) I can get emotional. I guess it’s a combination of letting go and putting myself out there. Is this a common experience or just my own? </i></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><strong style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Very common. Often when we 'learn to sing' it becomes an out of body, disconnected-from-our-body experience. When we sing as we're meant to- connected in our bodies and therefore, with all of who we are physically and personally, the breath and vibrations and connectedness can call up emotions that we've pushed away and/or ignored. It's a great thing... an opportunity to reconnect. </strong></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>As I’m practicing, should I be staying in my “head” voice throughout the songs or allow my voice to move from my chest to my head and just practice the transition exercise to smooth it out?</i> </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><strong style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I say play with it! Try things in your head voice, and then in your chest voice, and then choose to move back and forth between the two with a spirit of playfulness, rather than trying to get it 'right'. Then most importantly, make creative choices about how you want to sound and learn to ALLOW the voice to follow your decisions. It's tempting to try and physically will the voice to shift from head to chest and back again, but this tends to result in throat tension and a holding of breath. When we allow the voice to take the lead, and take our hands off of the proverbial reins, it's incredible how effortless these shifts- and singing in general- become. </strong></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>I’ve been told in the past to open my mouth more as I sing and that’s been a challenge for me - is that something for me to let go of for now, or should I pay attention to that in front of a mirror?</i> </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><strong style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I've never liked that advice... like 'supporting', 'breathing', and 'placing', these verbal commands and instructions often don't make sense or help when it comes to practical implementation. Sometimes opening your mouth a bit more- ALLOWING it to open- can help, but it really has little to do with whether you're creating sound correctly in the body in terms of support and connection and engagement, and whether the voice is traveling healthily through the vocal tract. If the sound is created correctly, allowing your mouth to open a bit is relatively easy. If you're tight, disconnected, or crimped in any way though, it will be a struggle to do so. The same is true when people ask you to manipulate the tongue in order to help production. If production is correct, the tongue is easy to manipulate. If not, it just adds tension upon tension. </strong></span></span>Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-15100457888686465932016-10-18T08:58:00.003-04:002016-12-07T15:16:26.912-05:00New Book Promo and Press! <span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What a wonderful weekend! I was just in New York City, doing interviews with <a href="http://www.halleonard.com/search/search.action?menuid=1179&seriesfeature=&subsiteid=27" target="_blank">Hal Leonard Publishing</a><span id="goog_355925259"></span><span id="goog_355925260"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a> for my new book, <a href="http://amzn.to/1UDNmoH" target="_blank">The Art of Singing Onstage and in the Studio</a>. We had some great conversations about the psychology, technology, and relationships in performing and recording, as well as performance anxiety, finding your creative niche, and discovering and developing your true voice. I also had the chance to visit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theartofsinging/photos/a.318681339540.147735.26328279540/10154152729199541/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">Drama Books</a> for a meet and greet, as well as <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10154785756255312&set=a.10151444860050312.526627.682545311&type=3&theater" target="_blank">to roam around Central Park with my family</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">And of course... I did some singing as well. :)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Looking forward to sharing these interviews with you... coming soon!</span>Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-33804802552178151912016-09-02T10:41:00.003-04:002016-12-07T15:16:59.991-05:00The Art of Improvising<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; letter-spacing: -0.24px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">A few weeks back, I received an article asking about IMPROVISING... how to do those riffs and runs, and in general, how to find and confidently lock into new ways of playing with melodies. Here's what I wrote back... hope it's helpful!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; letter-spacing: -0.24px; line-height: 19.32px;">"Improvising... when we next talk, let's explore a bit more what you mean specifically. Riffs? Runs? More jazz lines? Basic melody shifts / slight variations?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; letter-spacing: -0.24px; line-height: 19.32px;">Regardless, there are some approaches that work with all of them. And in my mind, the most important is, mentally, cultivating the willingness to let go of control, which then translates into a release of the physical tension.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A couple great ways to release in this way are: a) listening and singing along with music in the car / shower... anywhere you're 'distracted' and not fixated on singing well. Harmonize, play, goof around. The more you do it, the less your brain can maintain such a stringent focus. And the more you'll be wowed by 'what you just did' in terms of improvising.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another critical and much overlooked tool is LISTENING. Listen to people that improvise well and let your mind and body learn what is going on. Through hearing, let your vocal vocabulary expand, and your body start to sense- without singing a note- what is possible. This same tool is imperative when it comes to physically carving out the runs you want to hear. Yes, some things can be off the cuff, and certainly the more you improvise, the more willing you'll be to take risks (aka: letting go of control) and see what the voice comes up with.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the interim, however, HEARING what you want to create- whether you want to imitate what someone else has done, or are imagining it in your mind- is imperative before CREATING it in the world, with your voice. Imagine a run you'd like to do in one of your own songs. Hear it in your mind. Most likely, you'll come up against, 'I can't hear it... I'm not sure what it sounds like, what I would want to do.' And that's OK... that's why you haven't been able to do it! Start imagining what you would like to hear. Hear the notes, and more importantly, how your voice sails around them. Hear the pace, hear the run faster, then slower. Feel your body start to 'sing along' with them, engaging slightly in places... again, without opening your mouth. When you really hear and feel- clearly- what you want, let the body create what it now understands and knows. Once your ear has 'carved out' the run, your voice will follow.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lastly, most of our warm ups in the vocal world are walk-ups and downs, thirds and fifths in the major scale. As such, our bodies- and minds- aren't used to really hearing and playing with 7ths and 9ths, seconds and tritones, as well as the minor scale. The same goes for vocal flutters (Arabic and Indian music) and other interesting grace notes and rhythms. Play around with these things, experiment. Be zany and willing to sound hilarious in your search for the edge and beyond of what sounds and feels 'normal' and familiar. Make the odd and interesting a part of your vocal vernacular, and you'll be amazed at how effortlessly these things will appear on command when improvising in your own songs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hope that helps!"</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.jenniferhamady.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">www.JenniferHamady.com</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Check out my new book: The Art of Singing Onstage and in the Studio! <a href="http://amzn.to/1UDNmoH" style="letter-spacing: -0.24px; line-height: 19.32px;">http://amzn.to/1UDNmoH</a><span style="letter-spacing: -0.24px; line-height: 19.32px;"> </span></span><br />
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Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-23696023872826603852016-08-08T09:52:00.004-04:002016-08-08T10:07:39.765-04:00Finding Fulfillment<div class="p1">
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<span class="s1" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This past weekend in New York, I had the chance to work with a number of wonderful performers. We sang, we laughed, and had some great conversations. Thank you Cristian for recording our time together, and for sharing this piece that was meaningful for you in your search to discover ‘who you are’ and ‘what you want to do’. And for your willingness to share it with others in the hopes it inspires them as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">"Coming full circle to what I was saying about being older than you and the 'wisdom' that comes with it… it’s funny when I look back on myself when I was 20, like you, I feel like I was the exact same person as I am today. Any differences are less about being smarter or better, and more about simply having had more years on the planet and the perspective that comes from that. So I’ll just offer this perspective to you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">People have an idea of what a career is supposed to look like. For example, if you say you want to be a performer, it’s as if you should do that one thing until you’re 60. But you grow and change, we want different things. I was a professional singer for years, I teach, I write books, I’m a mom, I want to work with orphans and foster kids, I want to do millions of things. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rather than following what you feel, and the journey of life and it’s winding roads, I think that the world tries to say that who you are, your identity, is That One Label: a singer, a performer. A lawyer, a doctor, a scientist. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">For me, what I’ve learned is that it’s not what you’re ‘called’ or ‘what you do’ that matters, whether it’s one thing or many throughout your life. It’s <i>what you bring. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">If I bring all of who I am and my passion and heart as a singer and teacher, if I bring that to being a mom, to working with orphans, to being a wife and a friend, and a writer, then I am fulfilled. It doesn’t matter what ‘the thing I’m doing’ is or is called. I could mop floors and be fulfilled. If I am loving the people who live in that house, if I am making a difference for them, if I am giving all I have to serving, then I am at peace and fulfilled. I’m fully alive in that moment. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">There are people I know and have worked with, famous singers, who miss this entirely. Not only can they not imagine being fulfilled doing anything but singing and being successful, they don’t enjoy even that. One bad review, one wrong note, and they lose it… their composure, their power, their peace. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">They’re missing it. They’re missing it. The opportunity to be alive in this and every moment.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">That doesn’t mean that you can’t be intelligent, or self-reflective… I can look at a book I’ve written or a performance I've given and think, I’ll do better next time. It also doesn't mean that you shouldn't follow your dreams and passions. Of course you should. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Rather, it means that fundamentally, existentially, it doesn't matter what you do or what you call yourself. In order to disappear your fears and concerns so that you can be fully alive, you have to be willing to be present in the moment and serve, <i>whatever it is that you are doing. </i></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You have to take away the meaning of what society says is important, including about yourself, in order to do anything with joy and peace. And by taking away that meaning, you find meaning in your work, in your life, in yourself."</span></div>
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Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-11547375462688892492016-06-28T08:39:00.001-04:002016-06-28T08:50:34.923-04:00Tips For Singers <div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "San Francisco", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; letter-spacing: -0.24px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">I was recently jotting some post-session notes for one of my classical singers and thought you all might benefit from them too. Great things to remember, whatever your genre or voice type:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">A reminder of things to focus on: </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; letter-spacing: -0.24px; line-height: 19.32px;">- In general, use more energy. Not in terms of 'pushing air' or being louder necessarily, but by using diction. Not only will your singing and performances seem more energized- at whatever volume- doing so will help you to connect more powerfully with your su</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; letter-spacing: -0.24px; line-height: 19.32px;">pport.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; letter-spacing: -0.24px; line-height: 19.32px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">- Pay attention to your speaking voice- healthy and lovely- which is in your chest voice. Vocalize now and again in the lower regions of your voice to keep everything limber and used. Remember, the chest voice isn't wrong, and it doesn't have to be belting or strenuous.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; letter-spacing: -0.24px; line-height: 19.32px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">- Watch out for 'preparing your breath' and lifting. Preparing to breathe and engage is fine. You just don't want to 'lock in' to a fixed place. Instead, you want to create a relaxed and ready space where your body can optimally engage in a way that's appropriate for each note, phrase and song.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; letter-spacing: -0.24px; line-height: 19.32px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">- Re. low energy / tension on runs: use a consonant at the beginning of every note to help you connect and stay connected with your support. For many people, 'D' seems to be a good one. Start with every note, "Da, da, da, da, da" and then start to stretch out the space between: "Da-a, da-a, da-a" and then to every three, and so on.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; letter-spacing: -0.24px; line-height: 19.32px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">- Lastly, remember: you are your own best teacher. You know your voice better than anyone. That doesn't mean other people can't help you immensely, or see things you don't. It means to be confident and to trust yourself. And when something doesn't make sense or feel right, speak up!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: medium; letter-spacing: -0.24px; line-height: 19.32px;">Happy practicing!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><i><a href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com/" target="_blank">www.FindingYourVoice.com </a></i></span></div>
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Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-5147615846026503132016-05-13T11:02:00.001-04:002017-04-30T12:53:08.843-04:00Pre-nodules, Acid Reflux and Vocal Care, Part 2<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 13.0pt;">A
number of years ago, </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 13.0pt;"><a href="http://tinyurl.com/zzz573w">I wrote an article on vocal polyps, hemorrhages, nodules, and reflux</a></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 13.0pt;">. Since then, </span>I’ve received many great emails, particularly about acid reflux. <strong>Here are my answers to your questions, as well as seven tips to help you deal with and heal this all too common problem.</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: Arial; color: black;">For starters, when it comes to any persistent vocal issue, your best first step is to visit an Otolaryngologist, or ENT (ear, nose and throat doctor). Beyond discussing your symptoms, he or she will be able to use a strobe– or small camera– to view your vocal cords and ascertain exactly what is going on. </span><span data-mce-style="font-family: Arial; color: #333333;" style="color: #333333;">In the case of reflux, what your doctor is looking for is redness and irritation in the larynx and on the vocal folds.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><strong><span data-mce-style="font-family: Arial; color: #333333;" style="color: #333333;">While acid reflux presents with real physical symptoms, in my experience, stress– and our inability to manage it effectively– is the number one cause of reflux and GERD (</span></strong><strong><span data-mce-style="font-family: Arial; color: #1a1a1a;" style="color: #1a1a1a;">gastroesophageal reflux disease). </span></strong><span data-mce-style="font-family: Arial; color: #333333;" style="color: #333333;">Food and drink, genetic and physiological issues, tight clothing, intensive exercise, poor sleep habits, and other factors can certainly create problems, and can sometimes even be sole culprits. Yet I find that these issues tend to exacerbate symptoms rather than trigger the reflux itself.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><strong><span data-mce-style="font-family: Arial; color: #333333;" style="color: #333333;">One little known such biological cause of reflux is birth control pills, </span></strong><span data-mce-style="font-family: Arial; color: #333333;" style="color: #333333;">the hormones in which cause the loosening of the esophageal sphincter, and as a result, allow stomach acids to regurgitate into the larynx. An overabundance of yeast– often resulting from a course of antibiotics or a high sugar, refined carbohydrate diet– can also trigger reflux, which probiotics can help to manage. Determining whether these issues are present is my first step when a client comes in with a GERD diagnosis. If they are, my advice– when possible– is to stop the medication and dietary triggers for a few weeks, and see whether symptoms subside.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><strong><span data-mce-style="font-family: Arial; color: #333333;" style="color: #333333;">I also inquire about what may have changed in your life or lifestyle recently, particularly when reflux seems to come out of the blue.</span></strong><span data-mce-style="font-family: Arial; color: #333333;" style="color: #333333;"> Have you moved? Taken on a new personal, professional, or performance opportunity? Even a seemingly small transition in your life– music related or otherwise– can have an impact. These questions also pertain to the development of pre-nodules; while they tend to be more voice-use related, stress and reflux can certainly help to exacerbate, and even cause, irritation and lesions on the cords.<br /><br />It also doesn’t have to be a real, ‘in the world’ change for the body to react. <strong>Our thoughts and emotions can be just as powerful in creating reflux as travel, issues in our personal lives, and impending performances. </strong>While we may be aware of the difference between thoughts and reality, our bodies aren’t. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><u style="font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 13pt;">Tip #1</u><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 13pt;">:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">It’s therefore critical to </span><strong style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">recognize and deal with whatever stress you may be under</strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">. A healthy, balanced schedule, plenty of sleep and rest, time in the sun and nature, nutritious food, clean water, and nourishing relationships are all imperative. If your schedule is particularly hectic, you’re grappling with challenging personal or professional issues, or you tend toward the stressed out, learning to find peace through </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 13.0pt;"><a href="http://tinyurl.com/q35sdwq">acceptance</a></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 13.0pt;">, </span><a href="http://tinyurl.com/hzrtk2k"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 13.0pt;">responsibility</span></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 13.0pt;">, and </span><a href="http://tinyurl.com/j4s3eje"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 13.0pt;">forgiveness</span></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 13.0pt;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">will help you relate to your circumstances and yourself more powerfully. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Click on the links above if you’d like to read articles that might help you in these areas.</span></span><br />
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<span data-mce-style="font-family: Arial; color: #333333;" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br />Tip #2</span>: If you have reflux, and even if you don’t, it’s important to <strong>drink a good amount of room temperature water</strong>. Water not only helps to keep your organs hydrated, flushed, and more healthy and efficient, it helps to thin and drain the mucous in your nose and throat, which becomes particularly thick after the onset of reflux. The thinner the mucous, the less inclined we are to clear our throats and cough– two habits that are a good idea to break, as they often cause irritation and additional vocal cord swelling.<br /><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br />Tip #3</span>: When it comes to singing with reflux, my favorite expression is<strong>: No Compensating!</strong> <strong>Your voice may feel thick, slow, and rigid, but resist all temptation to push through and ‘fix’ these sensations.</strong><br /><br />Imagine you have a knot in your shoulder. Banging on it won’t help matters; slow, repeated massage will help to loosen its grip. The same is true when dealing with reflux. Be gentle, and be patient. Begin to speak and gently use your singing voice as soon as you wake up, and plan for a much longer warm up prior to a performance, rehearsal, or training session.<br /><br />While your throat is indeed red and irritated where the acid has come back up through the vocal tract, save for few exceptions, it is safe to sing with reflux so long as you don’t push. It’s akin to being a bit tight after a particularly hard workout the day before; you just need to take extra care stretching and easing into the next workout to prevent injury. If you’re patient and hydrated, your voice will come around and you should be able to sing– and sound– as you usually do.<br /><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br />Tip #4</span>: On a similar note, <strong>when you have reflux it’s also critical to stop focusing on how you sound</strong>. This can be a challenge indeed, but the only way to get your voice to sound normal is to stop fixating on trying to make it so. Just as when your voice is healthy, first focusing on the sensations of engagement will allow you to understand and master the physicality of how your body produces sound, as well as how to rely on that physicality in any sonic situation.<br /><br />When warming up, it’s therefore a good idea to initially avoid ‘singing-sounding’ and vocally challenging exercises (runs, riffs, and normally tight and tricky areas of the voice), which will help to reduce the intellectual and ego temptation to push in order to sound good. Lots of easy slides through your range and registers will help to get your voice moving and healthily warmed up, at which point you can bring your attention back to sound and performance specifics. Also, consider hopping into the shower; not only will the steam further help to loosen things up and get the juices flowing, you’ll likely find it easier to ignore that initial mucous rattle.<br /><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br />Tip #5</span>: Whether or not we sing, <strong>everyone has opinion about</strong> <strong>what we should and shouldn’t eat</strong>. Obviously food is a personal choice and you need to find what works <em>for you. </em>That said, when it comes to treating and preventing reflux, I recommend limiting or cutting out sugar, wheat, pasta, and other processed carbs (fruits, veggies, and sprouted or ancient grains like quinoa are OK), which tend to quickly raise blood sugar levels and increase inflammation, as well as generate yeast. Many people find that removing dairy and caffeine help too, though I’ve consumed both without issue.</span></span></div>
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<span data-mce-style="font-family: Arial; color: #333333;" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It’s also a good idea to limit your liquid intake right around and during mealtimes, so that the stomach acids can process the food more effectively, without dilution. The same goes for just before performances; the powerful engagement of your support can often encourage a full belly– of water or food– to reflux. Consider giving up carbonated beverages as well, and if you smoke, please stop. In general, moderation is a great tool, yet I’ve only ever seen these two cause problems.<br /><br />Finally, try eating smaller meals more frequently, and when you do<strong>,</strong> eat slowly and chew your food<em>. </em><strong>Mindfulness– in eating and in all areas of life– helps to calm down our thinking as well as our bodies. </strong>I’ve seen this tip alone halt reflux after years of suffering in a number of my singers.<br /><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br />Tip #6:</span> <strong>Use medications sparingly</strong>. I know they can help, and sometimes they’re necessary to prevent damage. But in the long run, <em>you have to find and deal with the cause of the reflux, not just treat the symptoms</em>. This is critical because reliance on reflux medications will eventually backfire; in time, they all stop working as the body finds ways to create the potent acid it needs to digest the food you eat. I'm reminded of what Benjamin Franklin once said: "he is the best physician that knows the worthlessness of most medicines."</span></span></div>
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<span data-mce-style="font-family: Arial; color: #333333;" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Another important point is that the diagnosis of reflux has become so common, that it is almost a default starting point when a singer comes presenting with issues. Often a course of reflux medication will be prescribed as a trial, just to see if indeed reflux is the problem, before actually doing a thorough analysis and physical exam of the patient. Not only does this mean you may be taking medications your body doesn't need, but that the real cause of your vocal irritation– environmental or seasonal allergies, a virus, or whatever– is not being properly explored.<br /><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br />Tip #7:</span> Also, <strong>beware of surgeries purporting to solve the reflux problem. </strong>In my early 20s, after having used every reflux medication on the market, I had surgery to tighten my lower esophageal sphincter to prevent acid from refluxing into my throat and damaging my vocal folds. Physiologically, the surgery was successful, but wouldn’t you know, six months later as I prepared to return to my singing engagements, the reflux was back!<br /><br />When you’re stressed out, medication– and even surgery– won’t stop the body from reacting. Sure enough, once I learned to manage my stress, the reflux subsided, never to return again. <b>Therefore, no matter what vocal challenges you may be dealing with, and particularly when reflux is diagnosed or suspected, be sure to take a holistic look at issues in your singing and personal life.</b> Many of the clues to resolving the former can be found in the latter.<br /><br />I hope you find these tips helpful. If you have more questions about reflux and other issues regarding vocal health, please send them in and we’ll continue the conversation!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 13pt;">JENNIFER
HAMADY is a voice coach and board-certified therapist specializing in technical
and emotional issues that interfere with self-expression. Her new book, <a href="http://amzn.to/1UDNmoH" target="_blank">The Art of Singing Onstage and in the Studio</a> explores the technology and relationships in performing and recording. Her first book <a href="http://amzn.to/1RJ1HtW" target="_blank">The Art of Singing: Discovering and Developing Your True Voice</a> has been heralded as a breakthrough in the
psychology of musical and personal performance and remains a top seller in the
field. </span><a href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com/"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 13pt;">www.FindingYourVoice.com</span></a></div>
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Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-67551889886978153482016-04-11T07:48:00.002-04:002016-04-15T14:47:42.273-04:00My New Book!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm so excited to share my new book, "<a href="http://amzn.to/1UDNmoH" target="_blank">The Art of Singing Onstage and in the Studio</a>" with you all! The second "<a href="http://www.theartofsinging.com/" target="_blank">Art of Singing</a>" is also published by the wonderful <a href="http://www.halleonard.com/index.jsp?subsiteid=66" target="_blank">Hal Leonard</a>, and has been such a labor of love... 5+ years in the writing. And great news... we've already hit #1 in Amazon New Releases! <br /><br />Can't wait to hear what you think! </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/1UDNmoH" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRG8CfptJ_Laj2xV0HGQgidhchB5TavJg58Z9qzgEEW_u3oIEj9Yyq0CAFuEWROXq1o-CbO5fX36shvtMLvp4pfcluEhGFQ67bwLaA4V3HZThCSK9eB7e0fwI0IxnoPnnyaw3tV0s_ja8e/s400/AOSss+%25231%25282%2529+crop.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/1UDNmoH" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQecpVct_sY9vGGeURslBl7S3RuqEELETRHdRA-9UnE_OxovQqMyPjzfC-aF9LmabJKH4hyphenhyphenSkvC_LjUPmfqZGZQbb3XVapU1hZi8YiHsu61IOYUiuvyrRyWb4GjFbmMECiuJtvU460gs1Z/s400/AOSss+%25231%2521.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-40995213507041684712016-03-31T09:00:00.000-04:002016-03-31T14:46:07.382-04:00First, Do The Work<div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'DejaVu Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
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A while back, I had a great conversation with a bartender at a local jazz club. Like so many New Yorkers, he's a trained actor and singer working in the restaurant industry to pay his bills while focusing on his dream. And like so many in New York and beyond, he feels he needs to be actively taking voice lessons before going out for the big auditions. </div>
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So I asked him what he wanted to accomplish in these lessons.</div>
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"Oh, you know… to really find and develop my voice."</div>
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"OK. And how often are you singing now?"</div>
<div class="pt-ad pt-ads-300" id="div-gpt-ad-1404853927369-0" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'DejaVu Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 26px; margin: 0px auto; width: 300px;">
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"Not much."</div>
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"Ah..."<br />
<br />
This is a conversation I have again and again with singers– even professionals– who come to me with the hope of studying. And while it's not necessarily good for business to turn people away, it makes no sense for us to start working together unless they're already putting in a great deal of effort on their own.<br />
<br />
That's not to say that an outside perspective can't be helpful before an audition or while getting into (or back into) vocal shape. Yet weekly lessons won't compensate for the hours upon hours of singing you need to be doing daily to properly prepare for either. There is just no substitute for time and effort when it comes to getting to know and nurturing your instrument– and the mind that runs it– so that you can recognize and receive the proper guidance.<br />
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This is true beyond the realm of singing. How often do we ask for help without doing the work that would allow us to optimally integrate what we discover? And more than that... how often do we set out to accomplish our goals without being willing to put in the effort that it takes to actually achieve them?<br />
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I can't tell you how many singers I hear from and work with whose biggest obstacle is that they simply haven't <em>done the work. </em>Take it from me: there's no point in spending hundreds of dollars on coaching you may not yet be able to integrate. First, become prepared to the best of your ability. When you know what you're bringing to the table, as well as what you really need, coaching is not only vastly more effective, but more enjoyable and personally empowering as well. <br />
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<i><a href="http://www.jenniferhamady.com/" target="_blank">www.JenniferHamady.com</a> </i></div>
Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-58439133001040091902016-02-27T15:13:00.003-05:002016-03-16T10:01:32.468-04:00New Book, Website, and Articles <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">Happy 2016 everyone! It had been over a year since I sent out a newsletter, and as one of my wonderful clients reminded me, not everyone is on Facebook or Twitter. I truly apologize for dropping the ball! I'm reposting here in the event you missed my latest updates online or in your inbox. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">As always, please don't hesitate to reach out, let me know how you're doing, and share how I can help to support you in all things Voice and Self-Expression! </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">(And if you'd like to sign up for my newsletter, </span><a href="http://jenniferhamady.com/contact.html" style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank">Click Here</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">. I promise to keep you updated on a more regular basis!) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 24px;"><strong>My New Book!</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">FINALLY! My next installment for </span><a href="http://www.halleonardbooks.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #2baadf; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank">Hal Leonard Publishing</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> will be out by May 15! </span><em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">The Art of Singing Onstage and in the Studio</em><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> has been a true labor of love, and I'm thrilled to get it into your hands and to hear your thoughts. My dear friend </span><a href="http://rkice.com/pages/about-us" style="background-color: white; color: #2baadf; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank">Rachel Kice</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> has painted the cover (the amazing </span><a href="http://www.randallmhasson.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #2baadf; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank">Randy Hasson</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> did the artwork for </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1423454804/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1423454804&linkCode=as2&tag=wwwtheartofsi-20" style="background-color: white; color: #2baadf; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank">AOS</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">) and it's an honor once again to combine a friend's artistry and art with my words. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">Here's the publishers blurb about the book: </span><br />
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<em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To be a great singer, talent and technique are obviously important, as are having excellent songs and being able to move an audience. But there's more to it than that, including two critical skills that are rarely, if ever, addressed in vocal training: managing the technology on stage and in the studio, and interacting with the people who run it. No matter how fantastic your voice is or how much money is behind you, if you don't know how to work with performing and recording technology, you're in for a tough ride. Countless phenomenal singers stagnate professionally and even leave the business because they can't figure out how to deliver when using studio headphones and stage monitors, or how to communicate their needs to producers and engineers. And many less-capable singers get ahead because they can. The Art of Singing Onstage and in the Studio is the only book that comprehensively addresses these critical issues in an easy-to-read, accessible style. Starting with a discussion of the evolution of technology and the voice in our culture, it also explores the root causes of anxiety-related performance issues and, more importantly, how to overcome them. Singers, performers, producers, and engineers will all come away from this book more knowledgeable about the origins of their fields, empowered in the tools of their trade, and clearer on how to best communicate with one another.</span></em><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 24px;"><strong>Website Overhaul! </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">Now that the book is done, I'm getting ready to redo my website, with the main goal that it be in greater service to YOU with exercises, online courses, packages and programs, and more master classes and workshops here on the east coast and around the country and world. I would LOVE to hear about the kinds of content you're looking for, as well as any ideas or thoughts you all might have about how I can best support you, singers, speakers, and others looking to find your voices. Just reply to this </span><a href="mailto:jennifer.hamady@juno.com?subject=Newsletter%20response-%20website%20ideas!" style="background-color: white; color: #2baadf; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank">email</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> or reach out to me on </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/JenniferHamady" style="background-color: white; color: #2baadf; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank">Facebook</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> or </span><a href="http://www.twitter.com/JenniferHamady" style="background-color: white; color: #2baadf; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> I'm all ears! </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 24px;"><strong>My Latest Articles</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">As you know, discovering your voice involves discovering YOU. As such, my articles have always run the gamut topic-wise… I hope some of them will hit the mark in terms of what you're dealing with and what you need. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><strong>Psychology Today</strong></span></em><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/finding-your-voice/201512/making-the-choice-care" style="color: #2baadf; font-weight: normal;">Making the Choice to Care</a>: Self-sacrifice and self-fulfillment need not be opposites. In the right frame of mind, they become one and the same, and a gateway to a life truly well lived. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 15px;"><a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/finding-your-voice/201507/the-importance-rest" style="color: #2baadf; font-weight: normal;">The Importance of Rest</a>: </span><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.6;">Getting adequate rest has become a priority in our household. Because without proper sleep, we are unable to be our best in our work, for each other, and most importantly, for our precious son.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 15px;"><a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/finding-your-voice/201501/the-gift-acceptance" style="color: #2baadf; font-weight: normal;">The Gift of Acceptance</a>:</span> <span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.6;">Accepting what has happened in the past is the key to peace of mind and success in every area of our lives. Unfortunately, many of us refuse to do so.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 15px;"><a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/finding-your-voice/201409/forgiveness" style="color: #2baadf; font-weight: normal;">Forgiveness</a>: </span><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.6;">Refusing to forgive someone is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to get sick.</span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><strong>The Huffington Post</strong></span></em><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jennifer-hamady/being-mindful-versus-bein_b_8991972.html" style="color: #2baadf; font-weight: normal;">Being Mindful Versus Being Careful</a>: I recently read an article in <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/former-google-exec-says-this-word-can-damage-your-credibility-2015-6?IR=T" style="color: #2baadf; font-weight: normal;" target="_hplink">Business Insider</a> about how often women overuse the word 'just'. In it, the author points out that it has become a 'permission word' that dilutes our message and weakens us when we speak. I've certainly found this to be the case: not...</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jennifer-hamady/my-secret-to-losing-20-po_b_7865508.html" style="color: #2baadf; font-weight: normal;">My Secret to Losing 20 Pounds</a>: Five months ago, my husband and I made a decision to lose 20 pounds in 20 weeks. For both of us, having a child had taken its toll. We were beyond pretending that the dryer was shrinking all of our clothes... beyond kidding ourselves that the camera was being enormously...</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jennifer-hamady/to-your-health_b_6931932.html" style="color: #2baadf; font-weight: normal;">To Your Health</a>: <em>Patient: "Doctor, I don't feel well, and I'm not sure why." Doctor: "I want you to meditate for 20 minutes twice a day, exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, avoid processed foods, eat plenty of organic fruits and vegetables, spend more time in nature and less indoors...</em></span></span></h3>
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jennifer-hamady/seeing-the-unseen_b_6152250.html" style="color: #2baadf; font-size: 13px;">Seeing the Unseen</a><span style="font-size: x-small;">: </span></span><em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 25px;">We recently relocated to the Washington, D.C. area and are still in the process of getting settled in– a process that takes a bit longer with a 15-month-old running around. We therefore welcomed a neighbor's recommendation of two women who have been cleaning and organizing his home for years... </em></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><strong>From My Blog</strong></span></em><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><a data-id="5751385660203877599" data-item-type="post" href="http://jenniferhamady.blogspot.com/2015/09/the-importance-of-preparation-in.html" itemprop="url" rel="bookmark" style="color: #2baadf; font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">The Importance of Preparation in Recording and Performing</a>: </span><span style="font-size: 13px;">On one level, singers are master preparers. A tremendous amount of time is spent training and practicing, and in the case of many recording artists, songwriting as well. In fact, singers are often virtually non-stop in their physical and mental preparation for success, whether or not any performance or recording dates are on the imminent horizon...</span></span></h1>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><a data-id="6517627443414473687" data-item-type="post" href="http://jenniferhamady.blogspot.com/2015/11/discovering-vocal-freedom.html" itemprop="url" rel="bookmark" style="color: #2baadf; font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Discovering Vocal Freedom</a>: </span><em style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.6;">Janelle Laarakker from <a href="http://www.vibrantvocals.com/new-blog/2015/11/16/discovering-vocal-freedom-an-interview-featuring-jennifer-hamady" style="color: #2baadf; font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">VibrantVocals.com</a> recently reached out to me with some thought-provoking questions about how we can best find vocal strength, ease, and freedom. I loved our conversation, and hope you find my answers helpful. As always, feel free to share your thoughts!</em></span></h1>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><a data-id="7564266041863012015" data-item-type="post" href="http://jenniferhamady.blogspot.com/2015/08/email-coaching.html" itemprop="url" rel="bookmark" style="color: #2baadf; font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Email Coaching</a>: </span><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.6;">"I expected something powerful from you, but I was really taken by the beauty of what you wrote. Thanks for letting me throw a haystack at you so you could sift through it. I completely agree that some of my personal issues are affecting my singing. I hadn't put that together before. I was looking strictly at my singing experiences for clues while I probably would have been better off looking more holistically at things. I loved your letter and I think that it is full of the right kind of keys to unlock this reserved demeanor that has taken over me."</span></span></h1>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 24px;"><strong>The Art of Singing</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">Thanks to all of you, </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1423454804/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1423454804&linkCode=as2&tag=wwwtheartofsi-20" style="background-color: white; color: #2baadf; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank"><em>The Art of Singing</em></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> continues to be a Hal Leonard Bestseller! What's more, I just learned that AOS is now required reading at Clemson University and Anderson University, and has just been added to the bookstore of <a href="http://www.namm.org/" target="_blank">NAMM</a>'s <a href="http://museumofmakingmusic.org/" target="_blank">Museum of Making Music</a>, alongside incredible authors (and friends) <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Daniel-J.-Levitin/e/B001IGQX56/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1456603769&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Dan Levitin</a> and <a href="http://amzn.to/21qwghQ" target="_blank">Victor Wooten</a>! Thanks so much for all of your feedback, and for continuing to share the good word!</span></span><br />
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<strong style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 17px;">And Last but NOT Least. . . </span></strong><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">My most important creation. . . :) </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">Thank you all so much for continuing to ask about (not so little!) Lucas. He's now 2 and a half, and just incredible (she says, gushing!) I had no way of knowing what this journey of motherhood would entail, but it has indeed been a wild, wonderful ride that I wouldn't trade for the world. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">Here's John, Lucas and me recently enjoying some SERIOUS snow! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">As always, much love and Happy Singing!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">Jennifer</span><br />
<a href="http://www.jenniferhamady.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #2baadf; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">www.JenniferHamady.com</span></a>Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-7073280524293040602016-01-27T21:17:00.001-05:002016-01-27T21:23:27.046-05:00Being Mindful Versus Being Careful<div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #444444; font-size: 1.0625rem; line-height: 27px; margin-bottom: 20px; padding: 0px;">
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<span style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif; font-size: 1.0625rem;"><br />I recently read an article in </span><a data-beacon="{"p":{"mnid":"entry_text","lnid":"citation","mpid":0}}" href="http://www.businessinsider.com/former-google-exec-says-this-word-can-damage-your-credibility-2015-6?IR=T" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #2e7061; font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif; font-size: 1.0625rem;" target="_hplink">Business Insider</a><span style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif; font-size: 1.0625rem;"> about how often women overuse the word 'just'. In it, the author points out that it has become a 'permission word' that dilutes our message and weakens us when we speak. I've certainly found this to be the case: not only in our words, but in our voices, energy, and body language, we often apologize for what it is we say, as well as for ourselves saying it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Nothing has highlighted the importance of how I speak and the words I choose more than having a child. Our awareness as adults doesn't begin to compare with the carefulness of children's listening and their diligent observation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Thanks to Lucas, I've recognized and cleaned up some of my own less effective speaking and listening habits. For example, statements that sound even the slightest bit like questions (tonally turning up at the end), invite disagreement. This is fine when we're exploring, learning and having a discussion, but not when something's closed for debate. "It's time to go to bed, OK?" just doesn't cut it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Similarly, my certainty about an outcome is as powerful- if not more so- than the words I use about what I want to happen. If I don't know that Lucas will go to bed at 8pm- or return a toy to a friend, or stop at the street corner- he is less likely to do so... regardless of what I say.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Interestingly, one of my biggest communication lessons has involved a single word choice. As Lucas entered toddlerhood and became more active, I noticed that my admonition to 'be careful' didn't feel good- to either of us- no matter how I said it. Implicit in the words were a fear and heaviness I rarely felt until <em style="box-sizing: inherit;">after</em> I said them; my choice of language was suggesting an emotional state that then became reality.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I therefore replaced 'careful' with the word 'mindful' and immediately noticed a change. Gone were the heaviness and fear; in their place emerged a sense of thoughtfulness as well as a calm awareness of self, others, and objects in both myself and Lucas. As with the women who removed the word 'just' from their vocabularies, this simple shift had a profound and positive impact.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It's funny that I should be surprised by the power of language, given that <a data-beacon="{"p":{"mnid":"entry_text","lnid":"citation","mpid":1}}" href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com/" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #2e7061;" target="_hplink">in my work</a> I place tremendous importance on the words we choose when speaking about our instruments and ourselves. Even common words like 'high' and 'low' can adversely influence how singers perceive and attempt to engage with certain pitches, regardless of how well trained they are. It's therefore critical for them- and all of us- to carefully select language that empowers and enables us, rather than default to words that impair our performance and sense of wellbeing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Following my 'careful versus mindful' discovery, I spent a few days looking deliberately at my words and communication habits- in every area of my life- and was fascinated to see, unbeknownst to me, how many ineffective ones had crept in (including an all too frequent occurrence of that pesky 'just').</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Consider taking on this 'word watching' project yourself for a day or two. Some of you may even want to keep a journal and jot down ways of speaking that surprise you, for better and worse. Once we become more conscious of the language we choose to use and the way we speak, we not only become more effective communicators. The quality of our relationships improves dramatically as well, including the ones we have with our children and ourselves.</span></div>
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Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-25377740100230285972015-12-22T08:54:00.002-05:002015-12-22T08:56:17.827-05:00Making the Choice to Care <div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'DejaVu Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A number of my clients have recently been dealing with the decline of their elderly loved ones. Spouses transitioning from partners to patients… Parents who once changed their children's diapers and fed them by hand are now in need of the same.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I've observed as they've wrestled with how to balance their own lives with their family members' needs. Some have been able to create schedules that enable the fulfillment of both. Others have sold homes and shuttered careers in order to move and lend a hand. A tremendous amount of struggle and stress is common in both choices, and every choice in between.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">While I’m blessed that both of my parents are still healthy, having a young child has allowed me to see the love and intense sacrifice it takes to care for another human being. Prior to Lucas’s birth, conversations about this kind of commitment were just that; now, I am able to better resonate with clients and friends who have become late-stage caregivers with a level of understanding and compassion that my childless self couldn’t have.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here in the West, we long for independence and freedom, and often wrestle with the ties that bind us in service to others, including family members. Culturally, it seems that the two are contrary; that caring for another costs us the energy required to become and remain ourselves… that the time spent means time taken away from other more important personal and professional pursuits.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Certainly becoming a primary or even a secondary caregiver requires a dedication of resources– including time and energy– that might be otherwise spent elsewhere. Plans and money may need to be diverted. Projects might get delayed, or even shelved.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Yet most of the struggle I’ve observed– including in myself as a new mother– has had less to do with the responsibilities of caregiving no matter how taxing, and more to do with our resisting them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In every area of life, resistance is the supreme inhibitor of productivity and joy. When we struggle against the way things are, or fight against changes that most certainly will come, we find ourselves weakened, frustrated, and powerless. Only when we surrender to and accept our circumstances do we have the opportunity to find peace, and if we choose, to alter them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The critical aspect of becoming a caregiver, therefore, is not deciding to take on the role, should we choose to do so. It is making the choice to care; accepting the responsibility, surrendering to it, and even embracing it as an opportunity.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">When we make this powerful choice, we become privileged to experience the incredible gifts that accompany it. We gain a new perspective on what– and who– really matters. We witness ourselves becoming increasingly generous and kind. We develop previously unfathomable levels and layers of patience, compassion, and love.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Most of all, it is this profound love and connection with the people in our lives that is the true reward. When we’re in the trenches, sacrificing completely and giving our all, we might not always see it this way. We may at times feel overwhelmed, tired, and frustrated. It may seem that we're missing out on more important things... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Yet when we pause and step back, the radiant and transcendent power of that love and connection become clear, as does its proper place in the scheme of what really matters. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Looking back at my own life, I know that I won’t focus on the tough days and exhausting nights as hours lost or time wasted. I will see a life of dedication to the development of another human being, commitment to my family, and one day perhaps, having the honor of caring for my aging parents, as they for so long cared for me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I will look back on my life, having learned that people, relationships, and love are what are most important. And that I was blessed to have lived a life committed to them. </span></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This article was originally published in <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/finding-your-voice/201512/making-the-choice-care" target="_blank">Psychology Today</a>. </span></em></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><em>Jennifer Hamady is a voice coach and psychotherapist specializing in technical and emotional issues that interfere with self-expression. You can learn more about her work, her books, and her approach at </em><em><a class="ext" href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com/" style="color: black; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">www.FindingYourVoice.com</a></em></span><em style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'DejaVu Sans', sans-serif;"><span class="ext" style="background-image: url(https://cdn.psychologytoday.com/sites/all/modules/contrib/extlink/extlink_s.png); background-position: 2px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; height: 10px; padding-right: 12px; width: 10px;"><span class="element-invisible" style="clip: rect(1px 1px 1px 1px); display: inline !important; height: 1px; overflow: hidden; position: absolute !important;">(ink is external<em> </em></span></span></em></div>
Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-65176274434144736872015-11-17T13:11:00.002-05:002017-06-08T15:25:06.105-04:00Discovering Vocal Freedom<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #363636; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 22px;"><i><br /></i></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #363636; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 22px;"><i>Janelle Laarakker from VibrantVocals.com recently reached out to me with some thought-provoking questions about how we can best find vocal strength, ease, and freedom. I loved our conversation, and hope you find my answers helpful. As always, feel free to share your thoughts!</i></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Can you please define “vocal freedom” for us? What do you consider to be the first important step singers must take to discover true vocal freedom?</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">For me, the path to vocal freedom runs alongside the quest for personal freedom. And as a result, the questions that we need to ask to achieve both are very similar. What am I holding onto that doesn’t serve me? What do I need to release to have the freedom that I so long for? Is there anything in me that is resisting true power? Am I in any way comfortable in my discomfort? Am I wary of full self-expression? Am I uncomfortable with surrender? This last question is particularly important, as the most meticulous and powerful singing requires the ability to truly let go and allow your voice and the enormity of your instrument to overcome you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">When most singers think of vocal freedom and how to achieve it, very often they look to technical issues with the voice and exercises to remedy them, without also looking at these larger themes. Sometimes technical problems are really just that, of course; sometimes to relieve vocal tension, you need a specific change in your physical approach. But more often than not in my experience, personal and vocal issues are intertwined in both their presentation and resolution. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In addition to clearing out issues that stand in the way of our freedom, as singers we also need to know what it is we want. Do I want to be a great singer? Famous? To be connected to my true voice, or to sound a certain way? To revel in the amazing experience of singing, no matter how far I go professionally, or to reach the top no matter how hellacious the journey may be? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Too often we’re unsure of what we want, in singing and beyond. We blend our true desires with what we think we should want - often without realizing it - and then our actions are equally muddy and muddled. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">In observing and coaching other singers, what are some common issues you find are causing their vocal tension and damaging singing habits? Are singers often limited by similar inhibitions controlling their ability to sing freely?</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Most of the issues I see with singers involve faulty belief systems that then manifest physically. These beliefs include that singing is physically hard and burdensome to master, that it is something people can’t inherently know how to do well; that someone has to teach it to them. That singing must be learned with a language and intellect-first approach, and that excellent, reflexive singing follows only as a result of learning this way. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In my experience, these are all false. You first have to allow the reflexive instrument to show you what it knows how to do, and to continue to work in partnership with its wisdom in areas that need to be modified and development.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I’m always heartbroken to see how much anxiety and difficulty people have when it comes to issues involving ‘range’, ‘registers’, and their ability to hit ‘low’ and ‘high’ notes. These and many other problems stem first and foremost from clinging too powerfully to language, rather than recognizing that the words we use are reflections of what the body accomplishes without trouble. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Think about it: on a slide, you move right through your range and register shifts. Low and high notes are both effortless. Your voice knows what to do; it’s your mind that makes singing and developing the voice so much harder than it has to be. There is a huge distinction between effort and struggle. Stop resisting your voice and you will be amazed at how efficient and powerful it is. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">How does discovering our “authentic voice” positively affect our vocal development and our entire singing experience?</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">When we’re in alignment personally and vocally, issues gain the proper perspective. When the voice is a vehicle for self-expression, rather than something that has to be perfect to provide us with a sense of meaning and worth, we not only bring the right energy to our training and development, but see the proper paths to take and are easily able to follow them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">For me, discovering your authentic voice means discovering your voice as an expression of who you really are, and removing any added ‘stuff’. You’re just you, expressing yourself plainly, powerfully, and comfortably. Stripping away the excess also tends to help resolve issues singers have with finding their real sound. Most of us learn both inadvertently and deliberately through imitation, which is a fantastic teacher. Some however, then have a hard time discovering who they are beyond an affect. Honing in on who you are authentically makes this sonic recognition more simple. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">How can singers effectively bridge the gap between intellectual singing and emotional singing?</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In my view, it is best for intellectual engagement - particularly when it comes to development - to come after the initial, emotional engagement. You have to witness the voice before you try to make adjustments to it; you have to observe the voice before you try to name and describe what it’s doing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">That said, some people can handle an intellectual discussion of how to best approach a passage, integrate it, and then let the voice and its full emotionality lead. It really depends on the person. And certainly, when it comes to advanced singing, the two are ideally able to be engaged simultaneously, with the intellect keeping an ongoing presence at a healthy distance. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Regardless of the approach, the goal is to possess a full knowledge of how to use your voice as a matter of ownership, rather than something external that has to be thought and worried about. So long as the body knows, and the singer knows that it knows, that’s all that matters. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Can you share your view on singing as a creative process?</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">When I think of creativity, and the creative process, I think of curiosity and wonder. I think of humility, and its power to help us remain excited about learning and discovering.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Albert Einstein said that you can live life as if nothing is a miracle, or as if everything is a miracle. I see this as wholly applicable to singing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">What advice can you give for how to embrace our natural singing voices while maximizing our potential for healthy vocal production and artistry?</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">My advice is to sing constantly and to trust yourself, and your voice. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Embracing our natural singing voices requires us to explore and play. Maximizing its potential involves observation and integration. Both require dedication and an unbounded sense of time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I have a two year old who loves water. He’ll spend 30 minutes pouring it from one container into another, absolutely mesmerized. He’ll fill a bucket, dump it on his head, then roll around in the puddles. He’ll spend forever tracing the edges of his spills with his fingers, then watch the droplets fall from his fingers back into the bucket. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">When he plays this way, Lucas is doing just that… <em>playing</em>. He’s taking it all in at a level I relate to when I totally lose myself while ‘working’ on a vocal line. I put work in quotes, because even the trickiest parts of my voice and most challenging passages never seem like work to me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It has to be fun, or you won’t enjoy it. And more, you won’t likely get down deep enough into the experience to own and <em>truly</em> understand it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Allow yourself to play, and to get lost in the richness of developing your voice. It is truly a miracle.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Learn more about Jennifer, her practice, books, and approach at: <a href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com/">www.FindingYourVoice.com</a> </b></span></i></div>
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Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-81559170129128190792015-10-27T02:30:00.000-04:002015-10-27T08:35:09.987-04:00New York in the Fall<br />
John, Lucas and I just returned from a wonderful weekend in New York City, where we celebrated our dear friend Sarah's wedding, caught up with friends, and enjoyed my favorite season in Manhattan. It's such a perfect time of year to experience the city… bright, crisp days, the leaves changing in Central Park, the holiday spirit in the air…<br />
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Wishing you all a fabulous fall and a happy Halloween!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXCuh8SsjMImGybHWhhj2rbUAA3Ij0ul94fccFzAlzfxKKnNddNdPHXxG9MNBiMn8Xzyrg2gpy6AcTIA5eftZaHRzFBUlxbPeEW67VQxoTt9_gyBQXmNuKLSINqh-ng_bGM0OpAXCn4kDI/s1600/Plowshares+10_2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXCuh8SsjMImGybHWhhj2rbUAA3Ij0ul94fccFzAlzfxKKnNddNdPHXxG9MNBiMn8Xzyrg2gpy6AcTIA5eftZaHRzFBUlxbPeEW67VQxoTt9_gyBQXmNuKLSINqh-ng_bGM0OpAXCn4kDI/s320/Plowshares+10_2015.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>With our wonderful friends Vivian and Anthony at <b><a href="http://www.plowsharescoffee.com//aboutus.asp" target="_blank">Plowshares</a>,</b> </i><br />
<i>their incredible coffee shop on the Upper West Side.</i><br />
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Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-57513856602038775992015-09-25T15:13:00.002-04:002015-09-25T15:14:15.147-04:00The Importance of Preparation in Recording and Performing<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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On one level, singers are master preparers. A tremendous
amount of time is spent training and practicing, and in the case of many
recording artists, songwriting as well. In fact, singers are often virtually
non-stop in their physical and mental preparation for success, whether or not any
performance or recording dates are on the imminent horizon.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Yet another kind of preparation is all too often
neglected, and that is with the technology that makes recording and live shows
possible. Indeed, for all of their training and practicing for a performance
career, for all of their songwriting and rehearsing prior to recording, singers
rarely take the time to proactively work with the technology that facilitates
both. <o:p></o:p></div>
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There are a number of reasons for this, including access
and money. Not everyone has friends who work in recording studios or have Pro Tools
rigs at home. Even fewer people can afford to book studio or stage time to
practice, much less to record or perform.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Yet there’s more to it than that. There is often an assumption
that when the time comes, a singer can show up to the studio or stage and that everything
will work out… that they just need to sing the way they always have, perform the
way they’ve always practiced, and that the technology and those running it will
meet them where they are and ensure that things turn out perfectly. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It doesn’t work this way. And with a bit of thought, the
reason why is clear: In what other setting, line of work, or discipline can you
just show up, with no training or practice, and do a great job? Where else in
life can you use an entirely new set of tools competently, much less expertly,
without knowledge of how they function or experience with them?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Absolutely nowhere. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It’s like expecting to ride or swim perfectly the first
time you get on a bike or into a pool. Practice and patience are not only to be
expected, they’re required to achieve mastery. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Thankfully, access to studios, friends in high places,
and deep pockets aren’t necessary to gain the skills required for stage and
studio singing. With a pair of inexpensive studio headphones, a handheld
microphone, an average laptop, and free recording software, we can learn the practical
basics of studio hearing and singing. We are able, with the same microphone and
a decent amp or pair of speakers, to practice balancing our listening and performing
in a live setting (to say nothing of the many free open mic nights available in
most cities).<o:p></o:p></div>
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Some singers take these steps but the vast majority do
not. This needs to change.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com/" target="_blank">Jennifer Hamady</a> is a voice coach and psychotherapist specializing in emotional and technical issues that interfere with creative and self-expression. Her new book, "Singing on Stage and in the Studio: Understanding the Psychology, Technology, and Relationships in Recording and Live Performance", will be released by Hal Leonard on March 22, 2016. </i></div>
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<!--EndFragment-->Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-75642660418630120152015-08-26T12:53:00.001-04:002016-12-12T14:33:47.809-05:00Email Coaching<br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">"<span style="background-color: white;">I expected something powerful from you, but I was really taken by the beauty of what you wrote. Thanks for letting me throw a haystack at you so you could sift through it. I completely agree that some of my personal issues are affecting my singing. I hadn't put that together before. I was looking strictly at my singing experiences for clues while I probably would have been better off looking more holistically at things. </span><span style="background-color: white;">I loved your letter and I think that it is full of the right kind of keys to unlock this reserved demeanor that has taken over me.</span><span style="background-color: white;">"</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As it often happens, the wonderful people I work with open my eyes to new (and better) ways of doing things.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This is certainly the case with Andrew from Washington state, who asked whether I'd be open to some email coaching in lieu of our working together in person.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As I shared with Andrew, I was initially uncertain whether the lack of face time would yield the same powerful results. Yet I'm happy to report that the experience was fantastic, for both of us.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Through a series of back and forth conversations, we were able to explore many of the issues that often begin my initial working together process. And more, using email gave us both time and space to fully think through, contemplate, and process each others' words and ideas… a powerful foundation that will make our ongoing work– whether via email, here on the east coast, or over Skype or FaceTime– much more rich and valuable.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">If email coaching sounds like something that might be a good fit for you, feel free to send me a note. And thank you, Andrew, for the wonderful idea and experience!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<a href="http://www.jenniferhamady.com/">www.JenniferHamady.com</a><br />
<br />Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-73076570707822417122015-07-27T15:31:00.001-04:002015-07-27T15:33:37.853-04:00How I Lost 20 Pounds<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Century, Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">Five months ago, my husband and I made a decision to lose 20 pounds in 20 weeks. For both of us, having a child had taken its toll. We were beyond pretending that the dryer was shrinking all of our clothes... beyond kidding ourselves that the camera was being enormously ungracious. We were pudging up, and for me, any doubt about the need for a drastic change disappeared when I picked up my 25-pound 18-month-old one day and realized that I was carrying almost as much extra weight on my body as I was holding in my arms!</span><br />
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We're now a week away from the finish line, and not only have we been dropping the pounds, we've been having a blast. We've got a great group on Facebook along for the ride, and the camaraderie and encouragement have been so helpful. In every sense of the word, I feel lighter.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAeUy9GkIMWVGQo6Iptsuxm-2J598L_O11v6qcV_OPdXFUXysHnGN8isCa8W08-5zkrVw6g7uRqUy9uHiv5_KYxjt8eKuLze5hJB1JzugDO1Q5d_b-4O98qY10jhv16bsac0zSGzhmv5nN/s1600/Before+and+After.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAeUy9GkIMWVGQo6Iptsuxm-2J598L_O11v6qcV_OPdXFUXysHnGN8isCa8W08-5zkrVw6g7uRqUy9uHiv5_KYxjt8eKuLze5hJB1JzugDO1Q5d_b-4O98qY10jhv16bsac0zSGzhmv5nN/s320/Before+and+After.png" width="275" /></a></div>
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Many people have asked what's made the group so effective. Were we all following a specific diet? Did we have daily phone calls, participate in weekly video chats, or keep food journals?</div>
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None of the above. We're a hodge-podge of about 20 friends, each of us doing things our own way. Some people aren't even weighing themselves, but are taking measurements instead. And there are about 20 different food and exercise plans, many of which seem to change weekly.</div>
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What we do have in common is that we're a chocolate and wine loving, chops-busting, laugh-out- loud kind of crew.<br />
<br />
And that, I'm convinced, has been our secret to success.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com/" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #6aa3b1; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_hplink">In my work</a>, much of what I do is solitary. I mainly see clients one-on-one and spend a good deal of time writing. I'm often in my head, and my accountability is largely to myself. I've always loved working this way, but after having this experience, I now see how enriching, empowering, and <em style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">fun </em>working with a group can be... in this and every area of life.<br />
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For those of you interested in losing weight, I don't have any revolutionary tips. I ate a little less and moved a lot more. I had nutrient-dense smoothies and fruit in the mornings and ate veggies and protein in the afternoons and evenings. Shifting between the two did seem to help keep my body in a weight loss "mode."<br />
<br />
That said, no plan works unless you stick to it, and in that sense, our group was absolutely the key to my success. Making a game of dropping 20 pounds with friends not only made what could have been an arduous process enjoyable, it meant that it wasn't only about me. When I longed for a cheeseburger (and I'll admit, I enjoyed a few!) I knew that I'd be letting down more than myself if I decided to totally go off the rails. When I checked in and saw how everyone else was doing, it spurned me on to keep up the good work, for myself <em style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">and</em> to encourage others.<br />
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Most importantly, sharing our struggles and victories kept all of us from getting stuck in our heads and forgetting why we started the journey in the first place: to be healthy, to be happy, and to accomplish something we set our minds to.<br />
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Whatever your goals, whatever you want to achieve in life- whether it be losing weight, building or growing a company, or pursuing a new hobby or a long-held passion- find a community of people to join you. For accountability, for increased learning, for feedback, perspective, grounding, and fun. It will make all the difference.<br />
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<em style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">This article was originally posted in <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jennifer-hamady/my-secret-to-losing-20-po_b_7865508.html" target="_blank">The Huffington Post</a>. </em></div>
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Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-200027079660300362015-06-11T16:17:00.003-04:002015-06-11T16:21:53.209-04:00The Most Important Aspect of Practice <br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">When it comes to singing– and most disciplines in life– practice is essential. It is <i>the</i> skill that helps us to improve technically, develop discipline, and master our chosen fields of interest. </span><br />
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Yet far too often the relationship between people and their instruments– whether the voice, the piano, a football or an area of study– is neglected. This a tremendous shame as fostering that relationship is the most critical aspect of practice in my experience. Far more important than the "what, when, and how" is the <i>why. </i>When we are able to develop a love of our craft that compels us to seek out and engage in the best forms of developing our instruments, the details of practice fall into place. </span><br />
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I sat down today wanting to write about this important topic, only to realize that my friend <a href="http://www.bsmny.org/faculty/Roberto-Hidalgo" target="_blank">Robert Hidalgo</a>, a terrific piano teacher in Manhattan, had already done a brilliant job himself in an email to me years ago. I hope you are inspired by his words and wisdom as much as I still am.</span><br />
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<i>As a teacher one of my most dreaded questions that I get from parents is: how much time should my child practice? As if devoting 30 minutes daily at the piano is really going to foster the love of music that I'd like for my students to acquire. More often than not, those dreaded 30 minutes of practice are the reason why many children enthusiastically quit music at the first opportunity. </i></span><br />
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<i>On the other hand, how can one achieve the right relationship with a musical instrument if not by nurturing it constantly? How can you take ownership of something that you don't possess? Maybe the crux of the matter resides in the type of relationship one has with music in general. Many people pursue the study of music for the wrong reasons– some are forced to do it, some seek notoriety or popularity, others simply want to emulate someone else; but few possess the humility and courage to transcend those immediate and superfluous motivations to get a glimpse of art in its pure form, and recognize the value of devoted practice to achieve some kind of excellence in their craft. </i></span><br />
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Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-2733690162128765642015-05-28T16:14:00.002-04:002015-06-11T16:20:18.410-04:00Seeing the Unseen<div class="content" id="mainentrycontent" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; direction: ltr; margin: 20px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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We recently relocated to the Washington, D.C. area and welcomed a neighbor's recommendation of two women who have been cleaning his home for years. <span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">Last week, Nelly and Jenny arrived and were preparing to get started when I offered them a cup of coffee. They both looked at me a little strangely, said no thank you, and set off up the stairs.</span></div>
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The other morning when they came by, I once again asked whether they'd like something to drink or eat, and received the same odd look, along with another decline.</div>
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As I stood in the kitchen thinking about the interaction and what I might have done or said to upset them, Nelly came to me with tears in her eyes and said that they were just surprised that I had offered them anything. No one- in their combined 40 years of cleaning houses- had ever done that.</div>
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Interestingly, back in New York I once had a similar discussion with our housekeeper Narcissa. She too had been shocked that we shared coffee, meals, and welcomed her children into our home to play with our son.</div>
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All three women are from Central America, yet as English speakers, language is not the barrier. Instead, it is a mixture of culture, comfort, classism and other prejudices that stands in the way of people offering not only coffee, but kindness as well.</div>
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Having grown up in the DC area, returning after decades away has given me a somewhat objective perspective on how much it has grown and changed. While I'm amazed by how many Latin men and women are now working here in virtually every shop and restaurant, what shocks me is how rarely the well-heeled customers of every ethnicity interact with or even acknowledge them.</div>
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Latin Americans aren't the only ones enduring this treatment. People from all nations and races are equally treated to varying degrees of social neglect, including full citizens like Nelly, Jenny, and Narcissa. Too often, they are overlooked and unappreciated; they are unseen as equals, unseen as family members, unseen as wise and good people who can offer anything beyond the often back breaking labor many of us feel we are too good for.</div>
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Our leafy suburb of Chevy Chase calls itself a town. Yet this term, given to so many communities like it across America, is in name only when we do not embrace every one of its members. Countless men and women work to clean our homes, take care of our houses, cook and deliver our food, and care for our children. We are bound up together more closely and intimately than we are with some of our friends and relatives, yet many of us don't honor these partners in our lives with the respect and goodness they deserve.</div>
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Regardless of what demographics might say, we are not distinct groups of people inhabiting the same space. We are a community of human beings sharing time together in our schools, our homes, our neighborhoods, and our workplaces. The quality of all of our lives depends on how willing we are to embrace this reality, and one another as equals, neighbors, and friends.</div>
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Our children are watching and learning from our example.</div>
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<i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Century, Times, serif;"><a href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com/" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;" target="_blank">Jennifer Hamady</a><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"> is a voice coach and psychotherapist specializing in self-expression. </span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">This article was originally published in </span></span><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jennifer-hamady/seeing-the-unseen_b_6152250.html" style="font-family: Georgia, Century, Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;">The Huffington Post</span></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Century, Times, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">. </span></span></i></div>
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Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-53647899849318978232015-04-29T14:07:00.000-04:002015-04-29T14:10:47.109-04:00Happy Mother's Day!<br />
Now that I am a mother- this will be my second Mother's Day- I am that much more appreciative of what my mother and every other mother sacrifices and shares with their children. There is no end to the love, support, encouragement, energy, time, patience, and soul that we give... a gift not only to our little ones, but to ourselves and the world as well.<br />
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Here's to all of you moms out there... I hope you have a special day and a wonderful year!<br />
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<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/mothers-day-single/id274271763">Click here to listen to my song, Mother's Day</a>Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-75744250478556831962015-03-28T12:22:00.002-04:002015-03-28T12:26:34.701-04:00The Importance of Holistic Health <div class="content" id="mainentrycontent" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #222222; direction: ltr; font-family: Georgia, Century, Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; margin: 20px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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<em style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Patient: "Doctor, I don't feel well, and I'm not sure why."</em></div>
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<em style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Doctor: "I want you to meditate for 20 minutes twice a day, exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, avoid processed foods, eat plenty of organic fruits and vegetables, spend more time in nature and less indoors, stop worrying about things you can't control, and ditch your TV. Come back in three weeks."</em><br />
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I love this conversation I saw on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theartofsinging" target="_blank">Facebook</a> the other day. As someone who hasn't popped a pill in over 10 years (save for an Advil once or twice), I'm solidly in the "Western medicines are way overused" camp. After all, if we need them, why are they constantly being advertised?</div>
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Not only are many drugs overprescribed (with side effects that often do as much harm than good), the medical model increasingly insists that external treatments are necessary to fix, cure, and heal ailments that "happen to us"– diseases and problems that are dissociated from ourselves and our lifestyles.</div>
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That's not to say western medicine is bad. Innovation of every kind has its benefits, and certainly drugs and surgery can be effective and even necessary.</div>
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Yet too often they're used before common sense, holistic treatments are even considered.</div>
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I've worked with performers over the past 20 years and have seen this on an all too regular basis. Even singers in their early teens are often on four to five types of medications for allergies, acid reflux, anxiety, muscle tension, sleep issues, acne, depression, and the like.</div>
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They go to doctors, who treat the symptoms.</div>
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But what are the <em style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">causes </em>of these issues? Or at the very least, what might be exacerbating them?</div>
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Back in my early 20s, I had terrible acid reflux. I'd been on three kinds of medicines for a number of years, which eventually stopped working as my body learned to work around them. In the middle of a tour, I went to see a top voice specialist who recommended surgery to tighten the sphincter between my stomach and esophagus so that the acid couldn't make its way up through my vocal tract. He felt it was the only way to stop the reflux and protect my voice from permanent damage.</div>
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Before agreeing, I asked whether the problem could be how I was eating... I'd been on a low-carb, high-fat diet for a number of months with few vegetables and no fruit. No, he said, that wouldn't have anything to do with it. I also asked whether it might be stress. Nope... this was a physical issue, resolved only by surgery. Could it have been caused by any of the other medications I was taking at the time? No. (Note, particularly to singers: Birth control pills do indeed lead to the relaxing of the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing acid reflux.)</div>
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The surgery did work... at least for the first four months while I was home recuperating. But then the reflux came back the moment I got another gig and was preparing to get back out on the road.</div>
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Why? Because even the best Western medicine can't solve problems if all of who we are– mind, body, and spirit– are not in alignment with that healing. Stress, fear, anger, isolation, and a sense of purposelessness can all weaken the immune system as much as toxic chemicals, fast food, and faulty genes.</div>
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And these issues are only increasing as a result of our hyper fast-paced, technology-driven, concrete jungle of a world. Many of us are no longer in touch and in synch with nature and the natural rhythms of the earth. We're no longer as connected with one another, no longer eating living, local foods and drinking clean water.</div>
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The next time you don't feel well, consider taking the advice of the doctor mentioned above. Turn off the TV and watch a sunset. Walk in the grass and deeply and meaningfully connect with your friends, family, and community. Nourish yourself– in every sense of the word– with fresh, pure, wonderful things. Be grateful instead of bitter. Stay in the present moment instead of the past or the future. Generate compassion, for yourself and others. Cultivate perspective.</div>
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Do these things, and you'll be blown away by how much healthier you'll become... no pill or surgery required.</div>
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<em style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">This article originally appeared in <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jennifer-hamady/to-your-health_b_6931932.html" target="_blank">The Huffington Post</a>. Visit <a href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com/" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #6aa3b1; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_hplink">www.FindingYourVoice.com</a> to learn more about Jennifer's books, articles, and private practice.</em></div>
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Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386832414408339726.post-65954169554930160372015-02-22T10:28:00.000-05:002015-02-22T10:28:04.709-05:00Why Women Love 50 Shades of Grey<div class="content" id="mainentrycontent" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #222222; direction: ltr; font-family: Georgia, Century, Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; margin: 20px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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A couple of years ago, I wrote an article for <em style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/finding-your-voice/201208/50-shades-concern" target="_blank">Psychology Today</a></em> about the popular E L James novel entitled "50 Shades of Concern." In it, I celebrated the success and self-expression of the new author. Yet I also voiced my concerns about how the physically and emotionally abusive aspects of the story might encourage experimentation and acceptance of the same in real life… concerns that have surfaced again with the recent release of the movie. </div>
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<a href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/finding-your-voice/201208/50-shades-concern" target="_blank">The article</a> brought about some interesting comments... including one in particular that I'd like to address and respond to. Referencing the wild and enduring success of the Harlequin romance series, one man wrote:</div>
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In all of these novels the woman is eventually taken by force by the man; it is not a rape, but close... Why are so many women so fascinated with novels about being borderline raped and sexually and emotionally abused by dominating men? I have heard some theories but I would be curious to know what the author of this piece has to say about it.</div>
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It's a great question, the answer to which I believe can be distilled down to two themes: the desire for unparalleled sexual pleasure, as well as the ability to fully surrender to it.</div>
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Let's look at the second piece first. It's not that women are necessarily drawn to stories about rape, sexual, or emotional abuse. Rather, readers are attracted to the idea of what being physically dominated provides: the requirement -- the demand -- to let go. For women who get too into their heads during sex to fully enjoy it, for whatever reason, being 'forced' to surrender can be a lovely and luscious idea.</div>
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The other commonality in these and similar tales is that the men are enthralled and expert lovers. Women not fully or at all satisfied in their sexual relationships, as well as those uncomfortable or unwilling to communicate about what would bring them pleasure, are understandably drawn to accounts of heroines in the throws of perfect passion that they themselves have only dreamed about.</div>
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The requirement of pleasure, delivered by a gorgeous, skilled, and smitten someone who knows our bodies and desires better than we do.... Is there really any question as to why these books are so popular?</div>
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Entertaining and enticing as they might be, these books are works of fiction. A fiction that continues to reinforce what isn't working in relationships and the bedroom, rather than reveal a pathway to what does.</div>
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In reality, relationships that explode with passion and pleasure do not come from forced surrender or sexual wizardry. They come from a personal confidence that allows for the willingness to be vulnerable and to play. From respect for and acceptance of one another. From selflessness and the commitment to communicate.</div>
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Great sex and true intimacy -- as well as enduring interest and attraction -- become possible when both people have the desire and even determination to give more than they get, to revel in the pleasure of the other, and to cherish that person, body, mind, heart and spirit.</div>
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Interestingly, many of these books– including James' trilogy– get there in the end. But this is indeed the result of creative license; it is fiction to suppose that respect, communication, and commitment naturally emerge from mind-blowing orgasms. Just as it is dangerous to suggest that a healthy emotional and sexual relationship can be achieved through the endurance of abuse, fear, domination, jealousy and violence.</div>
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<i>Learn more about my practice and books by visiting: <a href="http://www.findingyourvoice.com/" target="_blank">www.FindingYourVoice.com </a></i></div>
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Jennifer Hamadyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15900182675456262554noreply@blogger.com0