The weather is increasingly unpredictable – one moment it’s sweltering, then there’s puddles everywhere. Bright sunlight is swiftly followed by sharply cold evenings.

At Vivamus, we obviously couldn’t witness all of this without wondering: just how is all this change in the weather affecting our singing?

Most singers know the frustration: you’ve prepared, you’ve warmed up, you’re ready to sing – and suddenly your voice feels drier, tighter, or less reliable than usual. It’s not always about technique. Sometimes, it really is about the weather.

The environment you sing in – whether it’s a crisp winter rehearsal, a humid summer concert, or a drafty church – can have a huge effect on how your voice feels and functions.

The good news? With a little awareness and preparation, you can adapt.

Singing in cold weather

Cold air is often dry, and dry air can dehydrate your vocal cords. Breathing it in quickly (especially outdoors) may make your throat feel tight.

Tips for singing in cold weather:

• Warm up your whole body, not just your voice – think scarves, layers, and gentle stretches.
• Sip warm (not hot) fluids to keep your throat comfortable.
• Try to breathe through your nose when possible – it warms and moistens the air before it reaches your throat.

Singing in hot weather

Heat brings its own challenges: a dehydration of its own kind, as well as fatigue, and sometimes pollen-heavy air. You may have experienced that outdoor summer concerts, while wonderful, can be physically draining.

Tips for singing in hot weather:

• Hydrate consistently throughout the day (water is best).
• Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol before performing, as both can dehydrate you even more. (To be honest, this is true all year round – but it’s especially true in the heat!)
• Seek shade or cooler rehearsal spaces if possible – singing in direct sun can tire the body quickly.

Humidity and your voice

Humidity is a mixed bag. For some, it feels like a blessing – moist air can keep the voice supple. But high humidity can also cause swelling in nasal passages or make singing feel “heavy.”

Tips for singing in humid conditions:

• Keep a light handkerchief or cloth nearby (humid air can make you sweat more during performances).
• Don’t overdo herbal teas or hot drinks – you may already feel warm.
• Use air conditioning cautiously – it cools but can also dry the air, so balance with hydration.

Seasonal shifts and allergies

Seasonal changes can be tricky for singers, especially with pollen in spring and dust in autumn. Allergies may cause congestion, coughing, and even temporary voice changes.

Tips for singing through seasonal allergies:

• Stay aware of local pollen counts and try to plan rehearsals accordingly.
• Saline nasal sprays, or gentle steam inhalation, can help ease dryness or congestion.
• If medication is needed, check with your doctor for singer-friendly options – some antihistamines can be drying.

Weather and performance venues

Sometimes it’s not the outdoor weather, but the indoor environment which affects your voice. Air conditioning is often too drying for singers, while heating systems strip moisture from the air in winter. And, as many of us know too well, old churches or halls may be draughty, chilly, or dusty.

Tips for singing indoors:

• Consider using portable humidifiers (if the venue allows).
• Carry a scarf, even a thin one in summer – it might sound crazy, but draughts can surprise you.
• Hydration, hydration, hydration. Always.

Sing well, weather well

Ultimately, weather is something none of us can control. But it can influence how our voice feels.

With time, you’ll learn how your voice responds to different climates. Maybe you’ll notice that winter rehearsals demand more warm drinks, or that summer concerts call for lighter meals and extra water.

Every singer is different. The key is listening – to your body, your environment, and, most importantly, your voice. So whether it’s rain or shine, frost or heatwave: take care, stay hydrated, and sing on.

In the meantime, book a ticket to our next concert – we promise it’s worth it, whatever the weather.

Post written by Swéta Rana.