Anybody have any remedies for the dry throat that comes from nervousness while singing?

Question

I've already tried those "chips" from the candy store that Pavarotti reportedly used. They don't work. Neither does water or "Throat Coat" tea or any lozenge I have ever used. Can anybody please help me? Only serious answers from those with experience, please.

Thanks for all the info. Is there any way to buy these slippery elm lozenges in a retail store? I have only seen them advertised online.

Answer 1

Is your mouth going dry while you are singing? If that happens, bite your tongue really hard.

Otherwise, I can recommend Thayer's Slippery Elm Throat Lozenges. You can get them in health food stores.

I've also taken plain Robitussin cough syrup. Or Mucinex. Tends to get the mucous moving and my mouth and throat are less dry then. Breathing in steam is another good technique.

Oh, and if by chance you have allergies: don't take a decongestant. Those dry you up, too.

Answer 2

Well, if you really think that it's due to nervousness, then the only way to completely get rid of it is to conquer nerves...and that just comes with time and experience.

In the mean time, bottled water is your friend on stage. Make sure it's not cold water though...cold water will tighten up your vocal chords. Room temperature water is best. Just keep it handy.

But more importantly: sing in front of an audience whenever you can...you'll get past the nerves eventually. keep it up!

Answer 3

Try Honey. Also consider a throat loz called Theyer's slippery elm. Their hard to find but health food stores carry them. Do some karoke make a jerk out of your self and you wont be so nervous.

Answer 4

I would say to suck on a lot of peppermints because sucking on anything will keep the salivatory glands flowing. I have heard that hot water with lemon is a good remedy.