All musicians practice exercises. Just like sportspeople, they need to constantly rehearse and improve the automatic links between the command systems of the brain and the muscle structures of the body. This enables them to carry out the complex physical process of performance.
Basic exercises for singers consist of running up and down scales, arpeggios, and other interval structures, and mechanically placing different vowels to set patterns of notes. Regular exercises improve vocal agility, and accuracy of tuning, and strengthen the breathing and singing muscles to increase stamina.
Each singer will develop his or her own ritual of exercises to run through regularly, depending upon their individual needs and vocal ambitions. Exercises also form part of the warming up process before rehearsals and performances.
