Why do singers close their eyes when singing?

Singers often close their eyes while singing to enhance their performance by focusing more intently on the auditory and physical sensations of their voice.

Enhanced Focus

The primary reason singers close their eyes is to reduce visual distractions, as stated in the provided reference:

"...closing my eyes when I sang/sing is a way of shutting out one of the senses so I can focus more on how the voice SOUNDS and how the voice FEELS."

By limiting visual input, singers can:

• Deepen Concentration: Closing the eyes removes the visual stimuli competing for attention, allowing for a more profound focus on the music.
• Heighten Sensory Awareness: Without visual distractions, singers can better perceive the nuances of their vocal performance. They become more attuned to the pitch, tone, and emotional quality of their voice.

Improved Emotional Delivery

Shutting out visual distractions can also help singers connect more deeply with the emotional content of the song:

• Emotional Connection: By focusing inward, singers can tap into the emotions they need to convey, resulting in a more genuine and moving performance. The lack of external stimuli lets them access their inner feelings more easily.
• Accuracy and Control: When singers concentrate on the way their voice sounds and feels, they often gain more control and accuracy in their delivery. This allows them to express the song's message with greater precision.

Practical Insights

Here's how singers often utilize this technique:

• Practice Technique: Some vocal coaches encourage singers to close their eyes during practice to better isolate specific vocal elements.
• Performance Strategy: Many singers use closed eyes strategically during live performances to create intimate moments, adding emotional depth.

In conclusion, closing the eyes while singing serves as a valuable tool for singers, enabling them to focus on the key aspects of their vocal performance, improving both technical precision and emotional impact.