Vocal Music Advice

I have noticed an inability to sing certain notes just recently. I have a chronic lung condition, but before have never noticed this affecting my voice. Suddenly, I am unable to sing the way I used to just a short time back, & to my knowledge have no infection, but this frightens me, as I always had a nice voice.

Answer: Dear Phyllis,

Please don’t be alarmed, there’s no reason to be.  Assuming that other than the chronic condition about which you know, and with which you’ve lived for a long time, if you are otherwise in good physical condition, what you are experiencing is — dare I say it — perfectly normal for someone nearing her 8th decade!  Frankly, I’m surprised that you’ve not experienced noticeable changes, and notes that you can’t reach any more prior to now. What you’ve described is a normal part of the aging process.

Relatively few singers keep their voices “in shape” much past sixty, unless they are singing regularly (almost daily). You may want to visit an ENT if you are concerned that your voice may be reflecting something more than just what is normal.  Some folk experience some degree of acid reflux as they get older, which does affect the voice.  However, if you are healthy, you will need to accept the new limits that come with a full life.

I hope you don’t worry any more.