I am curious if anyone out there has ever taken speach level singing lessons. I recently took a workshop and lesson and had mixed feelings about it. Specifically, the idea that what everyone else is teaching out there is misleading, since the emphasis should be on the larnyx position above all else. This method teaches relaxation in the throat and face, which I totally agree with and so I might like to pursue it, however lessons are inconvenient and expensive for me. Can I learn many of the same things with accessible vocal coach, or is this method really different enough to warrent seaking it out?    Here is a summary that I found on the web.... I look forward to hearing if anyone has had success with this method. Claire

Speech-Level-Singing involves training one to sing with the same ease and relaxed nature as in talking. Training emphasis is on the larynx, which should remain at a fixed level in the throat, even when singing the high notes. The breath support system, specifically the diaphragm and the lower costal muscles, work involuntarily and automatically when the voice box is kept at this level.

Exercises are given to strengthen the muscles within and below the larynx, to train the larynx to remain down and at this fixed level. One must never raise nor hike the larynx to hit the higher notes. For detailed information on the larynx, vocal cords and diaphragm, check out our Vocal Anatomy section.

If you are using the proper muscles, the sound produced from training with these exercises will be free and relaxed. If there is any tension in the sound, or in the throat, neck or jaw, you are using other muscles besides only the ones in your voice box, which should always remain relaxed. Most singers use excessive air and outer muscular effort and push too hard when singing. Singing should be comfortable and easy. The result is ultimate vocal power.