How to do Riyaaz (Vocal Practice)

This post is about learning different ways of Vocal practice. In Indian classical music it is known as “Riyaaz”. It helps to enhance texture, quality & modulation of your voice.

OM Chanting

OM chanting should be done at least for 15 minutes every day before starting Riyaaz. It calms your mind & helps to focus. It rejuvenates of your body & improves your grasping power. It also helps to harmonize the breathing pattern, which is useful in singing especially Indian Classical Ragas. Watch this video to learn OM chanting.

Hit the bass note first

It is essential to begin your Riyaaz with bass notes. It brings harmony to connect you with Sur. It is the best way to relax your throat muscles & clear your throat. It is advisable not to initiate your Riyaaz with high notes. This will adversely affect your throat muscles. As, singing high notes generally put more strain on your throat.

Sing & play

Riyaaz along with playing harmonium immensely enhances your control over voice & rhythm. Practicing various Ragas on harmonium remarkably increase your grip over Sur & Laya.  Synchronization of your voice with musical note of harmonium improves your ability to learn the Raga faster.

Schedule a time for Riyaaz

It is essential to schedule a time for doing Riyaaz. It is advisable by many ustaad (Maestros) to do Riyaaz early in morning on daily basis. There are certain Ragas, for which their time of practising is fixed. For example, Raga Khamaj should be practised at evening time. Generally, 2-3 hours of Riyaaz at a stretch is sufficient; beyond the limit can harm your vocal cords & may result into swelling of tonsils. Look at the Raga wheel which indicates timing of Ragas to be Practised.

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