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Singing in Calgary’s dry air: How lessons can help you adapt your voice

Writer's picture: Florie Florie


man playing outside guitar


Ever felt like your throat is a desert while singing in Calgary? You’re not alone! With its dry air and high altitude, Calgary presents unique challenges for vocalists. But don’t worry—singing lessons in Calgary aren’t just about hitting the right notes; they’re also about learning how to protect and adapt your voice to thrive in this environment.


Here’s why Calgary’s climate can affect your voice—and how local singing lessons can make all the difference.


The vocal challenges of Calgary’s climate


  1. Dry air: Calgary’s arid climate can wreak havoc on your vocal folds, making them more susceptible to dryness and irritation. This can lead to a strained, tired voice, especially for singers not accustomed to the conditions.

  2. High altitude: The city’s elevation means there’s less oxygen, which can affect breath control—a critical element of singing. You may feel winded more easily when practicing long phrases or belting out powerful notes.

  3. Cold winters: In the winter, Calgary’s frigid temperatures force many people indoors, where heating systems can dry out the air even more. This can compound the effects on your vocal health, making proper hydration and technique even more important.



How voice lessons in Calgary can help


  1. Hydration and vocal care strategies: Local singing teachers understand Calgary’s unique climate and will emphasize the importance of staying hydrated. They’ll also share tips for vocal health, such as using a humidifier, drinking warm (not hot) beverages, and avoiding irritants like caffeine or alcohol.

  2. Breathing techniques for high altitude: Breathing is the foundation of great singing, and Calgary’s altitude can make it more challenging. Singing lessons will help you with specialized exercises to help you build lung capacity, improve breath control, and maintain steady airflow—even at higher elevations.

  3. Warm-up routines that protect your voice: Your vocal folds are more vulnerable to strain with dry air. Singing lessons in Calgary include tailored warm-up routines that gently prepare your voice, ensuring you avoid injury while maximizing your vocal potential.

  4. Adapting repertoire to your environment: If you’ve struggled with certain songs, it might not be your voice—it could be the environment (or stress, or hormones, or a lot of other things, but it also could be the environment!). If you are new to the region or just visiting for a gig and need to perform soon, a skilled local teacher can help you choose pieces that suit your voice and adjust them to work within Calgary’s climate challenges.

  5. Support from someone who gets it: One of the biggest benefits of taking lessons in Calgary is working with teachers who understand what you’re up against. They’ve coached students through the same challenges and have solutions that are tailored to this city.



Tips for singing in Calgary’s dry climate


While lessons will guide you, here are a few quick tips to start caring for your voice:

  • Invest in a humidifier: Keep one in your home or studio to combat the dry air.

  • Hydrate constantly: Water is your best friend—sip it throughout the day, not just before singing.

  • Pace yourself: Avoid over-singing if you’re new to Calgary’s climate. Listen to your body :).


Why singing and singing lessons in Calgary are worth it

With a teacher or not, while being on pitch or not, singing is always worth it <3.

Despite its challenges, Calgary is an amazing city to develop your singing voice. The unique climate can help you build resilience, and the city’s supportive music community will keep you inspired. With the right guidance and a bit of care, you can thrive as a singer here—and maybe even see those challenges as a badge of honour.

So, if you’re ready to conquer the dry air and elevate your voice, start your singing journey today with lessons tailored to Calgary’s one-of-a-kind environment.



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