I just went through this recently, and it was very interesting to say in the least. Singing with a clogged ear can be disorienting and challenging, as it can affect your ability to hear yourself and monitor your pitch accurately.
A clogged ear can be caused by a variety of factors, such as earwax buildup, congestion from a cold, sinus infection, or Eustachian tube dysfunction. Here are some tips to help you manage singing with a clogged ear:
1. Understand the Cause
Identify the Issue: Determine why your ear is clogged. Is it due to earwax, a cold, sinus issues, or something else? Understanding the cause can help you decide on the best course of action.
Seek Medical Advice: If the clogged ear persists or if you experience pain, dizziness, or significant hearing loss, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions.
2. Equalize Pressure
Yawn or Swallow: These actions can help open the Eustachian tubes, which may relieve the pressure and reduce the feeling of a clogged ear.
Valsalva Maneuver: Gently pinch your nose, close your mouth, and exhale softly to try to open the Eustachian tubes. Be careful not to blow too hard, as this can cause damage.
3. Modify Your Singing Technique
Rely on Sensation: With a clogged ear, you might not be able to hear yourself as clearly, so focus on the physical sensations of singing, like breath control and vocal resonance, to maintain your technique.
Sing with Light Pressure: Avoid singing too forcefully, as straining could exacerbate the discomfort. Focus on gentle, controlled singing.
4. Monitor Pitch
Use External Feedback: If your ear is clogged, you might struggle to hear yourself accurately. Use a piano, tuning app, or other external pitch reference to ensure you’re staying on key.
Open One Ear: If possible, slightly uncover your unclogged ear (if you have one), or lightly press your finger on the tragus (the small flap in front of your ear canal) to help with sound feedback.
5. Hydrate and Rest
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help thin mucus if your clogged ear is related to congestion from a cold or sinus infection.
Rest Your Voice: If your ear is clogged due to illness, resting your voice can help prevent additional strain while your body recovers.
6. Use Earplugs
Sing with Earplugs: Consider using an earplug in the unclogged ear to balance the sound. This can help you feel more centered and less disoriented, as it equalizes the auditory experience.
Reduce Volume: If you’re using in-ear monitors or headphones, lower the volume to protect your ears from further discomfort or damage.
7. Manage Stress and Anxiety
Stay Calm: Anxiety and stress can make the sensation of a clogged ear more pronounced. Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, to stay calm and focused during your performance.
Mental Preparation: Mentally prepare yourself for the challenges of singing with a clogged ear by focusing on the aspects of your performance you can control, like posture, breath support, and emotion.
8. Position Yourself on Stage
Monitor Placement: Position yourself in a way that allows you to hear yourself through external monitors if your hearing is compromised. This can help compensate for the reduced auditory feedback from the clogged ear.
Stage Positioning: Consider standing where the sound from the monitors or speakers can be heard clearly by your unclogged ear.
9. Avoid Prolonged Singing
Shorten Practice Sessions: If you have to sing with a clogged ear, try to limit your practice or performance time to avoid excessive strain.
Take Breaks: Give yourself breaks to rest your voice and avoid overexertion, which could aggravate the issue.
10. Address the Underlying Cause
Treat the Cause: If your ear is clogged due to earwax, consider using over-the-counter ear drops or having it professionally removed by a doctor. If it's due to a cold or sinus infection, treat the congestion with decongestants, steam inhalation, or other remedies as advised by a healthcare professional.
Allow Time for Healing: Sometimes, the best thing you can do is to give your ear time to heal, particularly if the clog is due to an illness.
11. Consider Rescheduling
Postpone Performances: If the clog is severe and significantly impacts your singing, consider rescheduling any non-essential performances until you’ve recovered.
Singing with a clogged ear requires patience and adaptation, but with the right strategies, you can manage the challenges and still deliver a strong performance.
