Annabel’s first rule of thumb when working with her clients is ensuring that they have the correct breathing exercises for singing. It can so often be overlooked as an unnecessary exercise but breath control can be the difference between a good singer and a great singer!

To practise breathing well, you will need to be ideally standing, or if you find it too difficult at first try lying down. Have your hands on your belly, breathe in and your hands will rise. Next, breathe out (exhale) and your hands should lower. Lying down will make it much easier if you are a beginner, or don’t have great coordination! Try to breathe in exactly the same way as this when you sing.

Let’s have a go, standing up, with good posture:

• Gasp the breath in through your mouth for 4 counts.

• Push your belly out when you breathe in.

• Avoid raising your shoulders when you breathe in - keep them relaxed!

• Exhale out of your mouth for 4 counts.

• Pull your belly in when you breathe out.

• Next, try one long inhale through your mouth for 2 counts.

• And exhale out of your mouth for 2 counts.

• Now, can you breathe in silently?

Don’t worry if you can’t, practise makes perfect!