“Practicing my voice and warming up on my own was extremely painful both physically because my vocal chords would become strained easily after years of not practising and emotionally because I could hear that my voice did not sounds they it used to when I sang a lot. It was also nearly impossible for me to talk to my friends or family about singing because it was too painful emotionally.
I have already noticed the natural blending of registers as my bridge strengthens – this will be a long process and it is ugly at first but so exciting! I am stronger now and so I have more stamina when singing. I am able to talk more freely about the process of singing and about my love for singing and my classes. I am beginning to feel more like a “singer” – something I haven’t been able to call myself for 10+ years!
At first I was nervous about “ripping the bandaid off” and singing in front of a group of people I’d never met – but this in a way actually made it a lot easier – especially because I knew that everyone here is also going through a similar process and is working on their own voice. I immediately felt acceptance and a deep sense of gratitude to be among women who are indeed working towards similar goals.We support one another completely and that is very comforting – I have not experienced this anywhere else in my performance life. Artistically I actually feel braver and more confident about taking risks – both because I see other people taking risks and because I am more attuned to where I can make braver choices of my own.
I feel grateful to be a part of such a supportive group of female vocalists – all of whom I admire. I feel grateful to have Ruth as a teacher because she supports me unconditionally and also pushes me past my comfort zone – amazing how she can do both – it’s like magic! I am celebrating just getting back out and doing the work of singing – it’s a great feeling.
I have begun to rebuild a relationship with singing and with singing and my family – one that has been broken and riddled with expectations and fear for a long time. I am taking an active role in my own personal development as a singer – much more active than ever before – and that is empowering and inspiring. I am no longer “following directions” but am instead taking advice, coming up with new ideas, and doing a lot of the work all while knowing I have full guidance and support from Ruth and the class. Thank you, Ruth!”
Maggie Ridge.
