damaged singing voice?

Question

I've been in chorus for five years now, and I've always placed very well in county and district competitions and things like that. In march I got bronchitis and couldn't sing at all for a very long time. Once I got better, I still couldn't sing very well.. and I assumed it was just taking my voice a while to get over being sick and stuff. Well, now it's December and I can't sing high notes at ALL. It sounds absolutely terrible when I try to sing high notes, if any sound comes out.. it's seriously a squeak. What's the problem? Have I permanently damaged my singing voice? Is there any remedies to help it or fix it..or is there anyway to fix it at all?? Any help would be great, thanks!

Answer 1

Several years ago I developed bronchitis just before a major performance. My voice coach suggested acupuncture. At the time I thought that was a ridiculous suggestion, but was desperate enough, I gave it a try. I went the day before my performance and was in full voice when the curtain opened. To my astonishment, it worked like a charm.

I learned never to doubt my coaches recommendations. To this day I have a hard time believing it worked, but would do it again, in a heart beat.

Give it a try. I bet you'll be pleasantly surprised.

Answer 2

I've been there, trust me. Especially for christmas programs when we're expected to go above a high F. I use what's called "Throat Coat". You can find it in the healthy foods section at Fred Meyers. It's next to the tea. Also, try lemon juice and honey in hot water. 2 table spoons of each in a mug of hot water.
It's a strong possiblity that you developed knodes (spelling?). Talk to your doctor about it, they may be able to suggest an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist to fix the problem if it is serious. Hope this helps!

Answer 3

There's a product that is a "trade secret" here in Nashville. It's called "Performance" throat spray. Another is called "Entertainer's Secret". It helps lubricate and heal stressed throats. I know many people in the music industry who use this as well as actors on the stage who find it helpful after the show.

You need to go to a drug store and ask the pharmacist for it.

If it isn't available in your area, try aloe vera juice. It's helped my throat heal from acid reflux damage. Now that I've learned about the other, I use that as it's less expensive and it doesn't taste bad!