Hot Takes & High Notes

a blog where the art and science of voice collide, served with a side of unapologetic expert opinions and a whole lot of glee

Hot Takes & High Notes is the place to dive into both the art & science of voice. We'll be bringing you all kinds of juicy intel served with a side of unapologetic expert opinions — from scientific study to soapboxes and all stops in between. Whether you're a voice pro, a singer, a teacher, a colleague, a client, or just an incurably curious human, this is your go-to spot for mythbusting, explanations, research, vocal geekery, and brutally honest takes on what actually works in voice training. 🎶✨

Hey, I’m Melanie Tapson — voice specialist, educator, and full-time vocal detective! I help singers, speakers, and voice pros decode the mysteries of the human voice with a mix of science, strategy, and a lot of straight talk. I believe in evidence-based voice care, calling out nonsense, and making learning about the voice ridiculously fun. If you’re here for clarity, confidence, and a little chaos, you’re in the right place. 🎤🔥

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👐 Laryngeal Massage: When, Why & Who Should Be Doing It? laryngeal massage mtd pain sustainable singing tension

So, your voice is feeling tight, your larynx is so high it feels like it's left the building, and someone suggests laryngeal massage as the magic fix. Or maybe you’re a voice clinician wondering if th...

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🚨 Not a Doctor: The Different Breeds of Voice Superheros - and Who You Really Need! 🎤 finding a voice teacher parents of singers slp voice care voice therapist

 

Let’s get one thing straight right out of the gate: I am not a doctor. I don’t play one on TV, I don’t have a prescription pad, and if you ask me to diagnose your mystery rash, I’m going to tel

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🗺️ Finding the Right Voice Professional For Your Vocal Needs! finding a voice teacher finding a voice therapist finding an slp voice care
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🕵️‍♀️ The 5 Sneaky Suspects Behind Your Voice Problem (And How to Catch Them!) hydration reflux singing tips vocal hygiene voice care

You’re doing everything right — hydrating, warming up, not yelling at your dog (well, not often) — and yet, your voice is still giving you grief. What gives?! 🤨

Turns out, there are some sneaky suspe...

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🎤 Singing Lessons 101: Mythbusting & Must-Know Tips for Parents 🎶 finding a voice teacher parents of singers pediatric voice sustainable singing vocal health vocal pedagogy voice lessons

Your kid just announced they want singing lessons — cue the excitement, the Google searches, and the mild panic. Do you need a Broadway coach? A classical maestro? Someone who won’t turn your living r...

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