Breathing Technique Question

In Level 1 Jonathan shows us basic breathing technique where the singer needs to inhale such that the belly expands and perhaps the side and back expands a bit too. And then goes on to show the hiss method. But I took from it that the basic breathing technique is simply to inhale - where the belly and diaphragm expands and then hold the air and release it during singing just as much as needed (or similar).

A Bel Cante trained Opera singer mentions in a foundational breathing method is a 3 step method.

1. This is same as Jonathan's description. Inhale and let belly expand.
2. A quick contraction of the belly where it goes inside and somewhat flattens the expanded belly.
3. Then sing notes. Exhale the remaining air
4. Go to step 1.

Of course in real singing exhaling the remaining air wouldn't make sense, you just refill the air on top of what is left (I woudl imagine this will be the right approach).

I haven't really explored/watched breathing methods for singing except for Jonathan's breathing episode and I understand from school to school and tutor to tutor this could vary somewhat.

But I can't make sense of the step 2 above. If contraction somehow helps after filling up air with an inhalation one could simply inhale with a contracted belly in step 1. But this seems to create some tension in the muscles so I would like to know if you have come across this and know of any reasoning behind this.

Finally, will you be able to share some links within this platform that covers foundational breathing techniques?

Thank you in advance!!

Hello - experts. Care to share some thoughts here?

Hi, Naushad! It sounds like "step 2" is engagement of the abdominal muscles to help control your airflow. Exercises like hissing, lip trills, or pulsing on a "hee" or "hoh" can help you feel that gentle engagement. Please see below for more on breathing!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HM5lrvtQTYY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ubk05SojvbQ

https://www.30daysinger.com/tutorial/your-first-singing-lesson-with-abram/2

I think that is what it should be. However the Bel Canto teacher described it as an independent step (like tuck in your belly) before even you start singing. I find this advise unnatural. 

After browsing through a bunch of vocal/breath support YT videos - I found one that also refers to that tuck in (pull in) aspect. I am sharing a link here at the right location where he mentions it. Just watch 30 seconds or so.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uylb43zdgz0&t=604s

It seemed he is considering that step 2 as an additional support (he say if you want further support). Question is have you come across to this aspect in your training and does it make any sense to include it in your practice.

I will watch the videos. 

Thank you very much!

Some might feel that "tuck" right before singing (in which case you might call it "suspension" of the breath); others feel engagement right at the onset of sound. We also feel that engagement differently: some singers feel inward contraction (tuck), others feel their abs just staying in place, and others flexing slightly outward. There really isn't one singular way, but I encourage you to experiment and use what works best for you! My teaching is geared toward what works with the majority of beginning singers, but you know your body best and I want you to find what feels the most natural! 

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