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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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...
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
...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...
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...