You're Not Broken—You Just Need a Vocal Plan: How to Organize Your Vocal Routine for Longevity and Confidence
- Bri Worek
- Jul 9
- 3 min read
😭 “I’ve lost my falsetto.”
😭 “I can’t belt anymore.”
😭 “I can only sing for short periods now.”
😭 “I don’t know how to choose the right songs for my voice at this age.”
Sound familiar?
If you’re an adult singer navigating a full-time job, parenting, caregiving, or simply the non-stop demands of life, you might find yourself saying these exact things. And here’s the truth: you’re not broken—you just need a plan.
Why Adult Singers Struggle With Vocal Consistency
As we age and juggle responsibilities, vocal care is often one of the first things to fall by the wayside. Even professional singers who used to rehearse daily find themselves squeezing in vocal time only for the gig itself.
It’s no wonder things start to feel off...
You notice decreased range or endurance.
Certain notes feel harder to access.
You’re not sure how to warm up efficiently anymore.
Your voice feels unfamiliar—like you’re not sure what it can do right now.
But here's the encouraging news: most of the time, the issue isn’t your ability—it’s your vocal hygiene and routine.
What Is Vocal Hygiene, and Why Does It Matter?
Vocal hygiene isn’t just for people with voice disorders—it’s essential for anyone who wants to maintain vocal strength and stamina, especially as the years go by.
Think of it like dental hygiene. You don’t brush your teeth because they’re broken—you brush to keep them healthy. Your voice deserves the same kind of proactive care.
That might mean:
Daily vocal check-ins (even just 5–10 minutes)
Hydration (hello, water + electrolytes!)
Mindful warmups and cool downs
Proper rest and recovery
Knowing when to seek a tune-up from a vocal pro
Adult Singers Don’t Always Need to Be “Taught”—They Need to Be Tuned
Many of my adult clients aren’t starting from scratch. They’ve sung in bands, on stage, or in church for years. They don’t need voice lessons in the traditional sense—they need a tune-up. A check-in. A recalibration.
Sometimes that’s just one session. Other times, it’s a short series to build a new warm-up plan or refine technique in this current season of life.
The key isn’t doing more. It’s doing the right things—consistently and with intention.
How to Start Organizing Your Vocal Routine
Here’s a simple framework to get back on track:
1. Reconnect With Your Voice. Start with 5–10 minutes of light humming, lip trills, or resonant “ng” sounds. Don’t aim to impress—just check in with where your voice is today.
2. Schedule Vocal Touch Points. Set aside time weekly (or even biweekly) for a vocal “mini-practice.” This might be reviewing a song, trying a new warm-up, or simply singing for fun.
3. Pick Songs That Match Your Now. It’s OK to outgrow repertoire. Choose songs that support your voice today, not what you could sing 10 years ago. (Need help? That’s what I’m here for!)
4. Ask for Help When You Feel Stuck. You don’t have to figure it all out alone. Whether you’re preparing for a show or just want to feel confident again, your friendly neighborhood vocal coach has your back.
Ready for Your Tune-Up?
You don’t have to be in vocal crisis to benefit from working with a voice specialist. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or someone rediscovering your voice after years away, a strategic, personalized vocal plan can make all the difference.
✨ Your voice is still there. Let’s bring it back into focus. ✨
Want help building your vocal routine? Book a consultation with Bri Worek, MS-CCC-SLP—voice therapist, singing coach, and your go-to resource for vocal wellness.
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