Dry Mouth When Nervous or On Stage? 🥵🚰 – 10 Tips To Combat Dry Mouth When Singing

Have you ever faced the challenge of a dry mouth just before a performance, leaving you unsure if you can hit that first note? Kia ora and welcome back! I’m Zoe Stibi, your vocal coach, and in today’s video, I’m excited to share my top tips for overcoming dry mouth when singing. Let’s dive in!

1. Stay Hydrated Throughout the Week: Many singers underestimate the importance of hydration. Ensure you’re drinking enough water, including coffee, tea, juice, and fruits and vegetables. Aim for 4-5 cups a day (around 1-1.2 liters) to keep your vocal folds well-hydrated and reduce that pesky “dry throat” feeling on stage.

2. Have Throat Lozenges On Hand: Throat lozenges are lifesavers. Choose your favorite without numbing properties to stimulate saliva production and provide a moment of calm before your performance. Even a lollipop or gummy bears can be effective in coating the throat.

3. Try Papaya and Pineapple: Incorporate papaya and pineapple juice or fruit into your routine. These contain Bromelain, an enzyme that helps thin mucus and promotes saliva production. Experiment during the week before your performance to find what works best for you.

4. Breathe Through Your Nose: Combat nervous shallow breathing by focusing on slow inhalation through your nose for 4 counts and exhaling for 8 counts. This helps hydrate the air before it reaches your throat, calming your heart rate.

5. Honey – Nature’s Soothing Elixir: Soothe your throat and coat your mouth with honey before singing. Its natural antibacterial properties make it an excellent alternative to lozenges. Say goodbye to awkward moments with stuck lozenges!

6. Avoid Menthol: Steer clear of menthol, which can dry out your throat. Opt for a fruit chewing gum if needed, though some singers find it drying. Personal preference plays a role here.

7. Moderate Caffeine Intake: On performance day, manage caffeine intake as it can raise cortisol levels, contributing to stage fright. Consider reducing your usual dose or switching to decaf after the initial cups.

8. Quick Fix On Stage: If your mouth goes dry on stage and there’s no time for a sip of juice, gently bite the sides of your tongue. This discreet trick stimulates saliva production without missing a beat.

There you have it – my 8 top tips for conquering dry mouth while singing. If you found these tips helpful, give the video a thumbs up and subscribe for more singing insights. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!