How do I remove shrillness in upper vocal range? (Singing what to develop)?

Question

I can sing up to soprano high C, but the highest notes are shrill (screamy), how can I remove that.

Answer 1

If you're a guy, probably the way your creating your notes right now is that your tightening your throat and speeding a lot of air through... making it sort of like a piccalo. If you want it to have a richer, less painful sound, you need to keep your throat relaxed, and a lot of space in your mouth- keep it all open. But I bet when you do this, you won't be able to hit the high C any more. It's one of those things where you're manipulated your body in such a way that it would only be able to sing like that in certain ways. There are guys who sing those high Cs beautifully, but they spend their own lives learning how. It'll probably be the same for you.

Answer 2

If you've had a lot of training, you are "over-reaching." Stop at lower notes. If you haven't had a lot of experience, join local choirs, or find a great vocal teacher to help you. It is possible to extend your range with a LOT of work, but you will probably do best to work on the quality of the range you already have. That alone may be able to help you get the screach out.
Oh, and somewhat related: on the day of a performance do not eat ANY dairy products, potatoes, or rice. They will limit your range and quality. Be sure to read the labels on food to be sure you don't comsume those foods by mistake.

Answer 3

I agree that you need to keep it relaxed and wide open. Sometimes I find it helpful to visualize--pretend the sound is coming out the top of my head, that sort of thing. Honestly, however, it's hard to know what to tell you without having heard and seen you. I'd suggest finding a reputable teacher in your area; they will be able to give you much more assistance than I can.