Vocal Technique

THE BIG IDEA

• Microphones and speakers don’t like each other
• Keep mics away from and pointed away from speakers

MIC POSITION (MOST IMPORTANT)

• The back of the mic should face the speaker monitor
• Don’t just aim the mic at your mouth
• Think: “What is the mic pointing away from?”

STAGE SETUP

• Stand close to your monitor so you can hear yourself
• Place the mic stand right next to the monitor
• Mic should be:
  • Under your chin
  • Close to your chest
  • Angled upward toward your voice (like a news reporter)

THE “MIC SANDWICH”

• Your body + your music stand = protection
• The mic sits in the middle
• Goal:
  • Keep mic close to your mouth
  • Block as much room sound as possible

SINGING TECHNIQUE

• Singing slightly over or past the top of the mic is encouraged
• Singing directly into the mic can reduce harsh “P” and “S” sounds depending on your voice and technique

DISTANCE = EVERYTHING

• Sing as close to the mic as possible
• Ideal: 2–5 inches
• The closer you are:
  • The better you sound
  • The more control I have at the soundboard

If you’re too far away, I’m not turning you up
I’m turning everything up

⚠️ CONSISTENCY

• Stay a consistent distance from the mic
• Avoid drifting in and out
• Keep your voice aimed toward the mic

MONITOR TIP

• If you get closer, your monitor will sound louder
• That’s a good thing

❌ Don’t:

• Back away
• Sing softer to compensate

✅ Do:

• Ask me to turn you down

FINAL THOUGHT

• I can only work with the sound I’m given
• Let’s work together to get the best result

NEXT STEP

Watch the next video:
How to Get the Right Monitor Mix