SOVT straw in water exercice ( straw phonation)

The water bubbles exercise, also known as the "straw in water" SOVT exercise, is a powerful and gentle vocal warm-up technique used by singers, actors, and voice professionals to improve vocal efficiency, release tension, and build healthy vocal habits. SOVT stands for “Semi-Occluded Vocal Tract,” which means that part of the vocal tract is partially closed, creating a back pressure that helps the vocal folds vibrate more efficiently while reducing strain. To perform this exercise, you will need a straw (preferably a narrow one, such as a therapy straw or a regular drinking straw) and a bottle or glass of water filled about halfway. Insert the straw into the water so that it is submerged by about 1–2 inches. Then, take a deep, relaxed breath and begin to hum or vocalize through the straw, allowing bubbles to form gently in the water. You should see a steady stream of bubbles—neither too forceful nor too weak.

The goal is to keep the airflow smooth and consistent, with minimal tension in the throat, neck, or jaw. You can glide up and down in pitch (sirens), hold single notes, or even sing simple melodies through the straw. The bubbling sensation provides gentle resistance, which in turn creates back pressure that helps the vocal folds come together more easily and with less effort.

This exercise is excellent for warming up the voice before singing, cooling down after a long session, and even for voice rehabilitation. It encourages proper breath support, better vocal fold closure, and a more resonant tone. Many singers notice an immediate improvement in vocal ease, clarity, and range after just a few minutes of bubbling.

Pro tips:
Keep your posture relaxed and aligned.
Make sure you’re not blowing too hard—if the bubbles are too explosive, ease up on the pressure.
Try to vocalize for 5 to 10 minutes for maximum benefit.
After bubbling, sing a few lines of a song and notice how much freer and more connected your voice feels.
The water bubbles SOVT exercise is a fun, therapeutic, and effective way to care for your voice—whether you're warming up, training daily, or recovering from fatigue.

⏰Time Codes

00:00 Intro
00:33 Why singers love this exercise?
01:17 Who can use this exercise?
02:17 How to do this exercise? Step 1
04:09 Singing into the straw- Step 2
05:30 Vocal tips
05:55 Straw phonation- Breath control
07:02 How long? When to use it?

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#vocalexercises
#sovt #vocalcoach #vocalwarmup #singinglessons

[marielaurencevocalacademy]

Disclaimer:
These vocal exercises are for educational purposes only. Stop immediately if you feel any pain or strain. Always listen to your body. Use at your own risk.

[almacruz-kyin]

Amazing, I’m your avid fan of your YT channel . Thanks for sharing your knowledge in singing

[juanfavela]

Thank you, I see the point. I was doing this all wrong haha