Professor Benny Negris on the Importance of Vocal Training and Lung Health for Singers: Lessons from Eden, a Professional Singer

The production of a voice depends not only on the vibration of the vocal cords but also on the work of the lungs and their strength, according to Prof. Benny Negris, director of the otolaryngology department at the Meir Medical Center of the Klalit Group. He explains that singers can suffer from swelling of the vocal cords due to strain after intense rehearsals, leading some to use inhaler devices to introduce drugs or steroids to reduce swelling and improve voice quality. However, he notes that it can be assumed that Eden does not suffer from a lung problem and only uses substances like water or saline solution in her inhaler device.

In addition to using an inhaler device, Prof. Negris emphasizes the importance of voice development exercises to train the voice. He points out that vocal training can significantly help singers who perform for long hours without a loudspeaker, like cantors in synagogues. He believes that Eden, as a professional singer, ensures to practice voice development exercises before every rehearsal to meet the challenge with ease.

Before a big performance, Dr. Slovik recommends that Eden drinks plenty of water, avoids smoking, stays in humid environments, and sucks on sour candies to maintain throat moisture. These practices can help keep the voice in optimal condition for a successful performance.