Ha!

This exercise helps students develop breath control, promoting vocal projection and developing their understanding of how to use their diaphragm. This exercise helps to establish a fun and positive atmosphere at the beginning of class as you should have everyone laughing by the end of it.

Suitable for students aged Any Age

Category: Vocal Warm Up

Duration: Quick (5-10 minutes)

materials needed:

A clear space and eagerness to have fun and have a good laugh!

watch how it's done

Watch our video demo below to see exactly how it’s done.

Click below to go to the step-by-step written guide.

step-by-step guide

Follow the step-by-step instructions for the exercise below, or download the printable PDF guide to take straight into the classroom.

INTRODUCTION:
Explain to the students that they will be using their voices and diaphragm to create a powerful sound by saying “Ha!”
Demonstrate how to engage the diaphragm: place a hand on your stomach and take a deep breath, then expel the air forcefully as you say “Ha!” Encourage students to feel the movement of their diaphragm as they do this.
Make sure the students relax their shoulders when they take a deep breath in and they stand in a neutral position.

FOLLOW THE LEADER:
Start by saying “Ha!” once, with emphasis on a strong burst of sound.
Ask the students to repeat “Ha!” after you, copying the sound and movement.

BUILDING UP THE SEQUENCE:
Gradually increase the number of “Ha” repetitions, asking the students to follow your lead each time:
Start with 1 Ha and have them repeat. Move up to 2 Ha’s and repeat.
Continue to increase the count, aiming for 10 in a row.
With each added “Ha,” ensure that the students continue to engage their diaphragms, producing strong, supported sounds.

ENDING THE EXERCISE:
Once they reach 10 in a row, finish with a big round of applause to release any tension and celebrate their effort.

Ha!