Mechanics: A Murmur, A Song

Murmur: A low, sometimes indistinct, but continuous sound.

Song: A distinctive or characteristic sound.

When we think of speaking or singing well we imagine great moments. We imagine clear and authoritative arguments or soaring vocal lines filling the room. Those are lovely goals and end products of course. But we don't begin there.

One does not begin swimming in the deep ocean as soon as you know how to stroke. Nor does one usually achieve embodied voice use just because you understand the outlines. This is work that must be experienced and will not be rushed. Which doesn't mean it can't be continuously improving and moving you towards a vibrant communicative experience.

It is about the murmur and the song. Can you experience the movement of air as articulations of sometimes indistinct sound? Can you embrace the feeling of reverence for all sound?

In making the murmur worthy of energy and focus we shift everything when we finally choose the song. When clarity and distinct meaning come from that place they are connected to intention, neurological impulse, and surety. We make few demands of the murmur. We may often ignore the murmur in ourselves. But, if we choose to feel the path of it then we will know where to send our song.

The invitation today is to inhale through your nose and exhale audibly through your mouth. Repeating this pattern while you change the nature of the exhalations. Explore sighs, yawns, vowels, grunts, and/or any other sound that arises. Even if this seems silly or unworthy of your time, give it import.

Then, breathe in through your nose and say your full name with that same energy. Observe that feeling. Imagine what you could do if you mastered it.