1. By Amanda Volovik

2.  Amanda Volovik, a semi-professional singer, has
trained classically and has performed with a number
of rock-and-roll bands as well. Highly ranked in
singing competitions across northern Nevada,
Amanda Volovik stands out for her powerful sound.
As a vocalist, your instrument is literally part of you.
As a performance approaches, anything that you do
and anywhere that you go has the potential to impact
what you are able to do on stage. Even if the
performance is a week or more away, you may cause
yourself strain simply by talking over a crowd at a
large party.

3.  Anything that causes congestion and airway irritation is
also harmful in the long-term, particularly for singers with
chronic allergies, who must take care to avoid allergens
and work to keep the sinuses clear.
On the day of the performance, hydration is key. If your
urine is clear or close to clear, you are drinking enough
water. Caffeinated drinks can act as a diuretic and dry you
out while carbonation can cause excess gas. Citrus foods
and dairy can leave a residue in the throat and thus should
not be a part of a singer's performance-day regimen.
Vocal rest is essential in the hours leading up to the show,
but take care not to eliminate a careful yet thorough
warm-up before your first notes.