Why do Some Singers Act Like Hypochondriacs?
Why Do Some Singers Act Like Hypochondriacs?!
Getting sick, UGH! It’s times like this that singers WISH they weren’t singers, especially when they have an upcoming gig/performance.
You have singer friends, I’m sure, that especially at certain times of the year or weeks out from their next gig, they suddenly can’t participate in life the same way “normal” people do. You may even get upset at them, labeling them “party poopers!” I understand!
But, I know what it's like to be on the singer's side, (and the director's side), too. As a singer, the time leading up to a performance is exciting, and sometimes stressful. If it's during winter months, then more viruses are going around. If a singer is keen on this, they will be extra careful out in public. You may see them sanitizing or washing their hands a lot, keeping distance, and not sharing drinks or food, (or sporting the ever-famous singer-scarf!) Please know, this has nothing to do with you!
The thing is, when a singer gets sick, it makes good singing difficult. Their instrument is part of their BODY. So, depending on the virus, mucus fills our sinus cavities/resonators, and then we don’t sound like ourselves so much. Mucus also gets on the vocal cords and can “clump” there, making certain notes hard to sing. The vocal cords can also get inflamed, and then it is dangerous to sing due to possibly damaging them. And, when you are sick, you just feel lousy, and therefore can not give your best performance! Finally, if they are really sick, they may have to cancel a performance, and that is tragic. They likely will not get paid, and also the weeks or months of hard work can’t be shared!
On the director’s side, I can say that no matter the type of production, it is a worry that singers will get sick, and then as a director, I will have to find ways to compensate. Whether that is with bringing in another singer, changing repertoire, or simply singing myself. It causes stress, no doubt. (Even as we speak, I have two choir members that are trying to get well before Christmas Eve services in three days!)
So, give your singer friends a break, they could use some support this time of year. If you’ve been sick, or around someone that is, let your singer friends know so they can decide if other arrangements can be made, and play it safe. If we haven’t learned anything through COVID, it's that we can be more respectful of infecting others, especially if their jobs rely on health.
Here’s a link to my top tips this time of year for good singer health! Happy Holidays!
