Studio DIVA

11/02/2026

25/11/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Fp8DCGaWu/

Scientists have found that singing can boost the body’s immune system in a dramatic way, increasing levels of the antibody sIgA by as much as 240 percent in under an hour. This antibody plays a crucial role in defending the body’s airways, throat, and digestive tract from viruses and bacteria. Researchers say the effect is tied to the deep breathing, emotional expression, and physical resonance involved in singing, all of which activate pathways that strengthen the immune response.

In controlled studies, participants who sang for 30–60 minutes showed a surge in sIgA levels far beyond what researchers expected. What’s even more surprising is that the boost didn’t depend on singing ability — even people who considered themselves “bad” singers experienced the same immune lift. Scientists believe that the combination of diaphragmatic breathing, vocal vibration, and emotional release signals the body to increase its frontline defenses, creating a fast-acting protective effect.

The benefits also appear to last for hours after singing stops, suggesting that regular sessions could help support long-term immune health. Some studies even show that choir groups and singing classes experience fewer colds, lower stress hormones, and better overall well-being. While singing isn’t a replacement for medical care, it offers a simple, uplifting way to strengthen the body’s natural protection system.

This growing field of research highlights how strongly our voices are connected to our health. Something as joyful and accessible as singing could be one of the most unexpectedly powerful tools for boosting immunity.

17/11/2025

14/11/2025

A Nonsensical Policy: Ageism in Opera Programs

It is an ongoing issue that I find disturbing: the younger age cutoffs that have become policy for young artist opera programs. Many voices do not even come close to maturing until age 35, so enforcing an age cutoff of age 30 makes no sense whatsoever, except to eliminate a lot of hugely talented people from the audition pool.

There was a time when it was well-known that an agent and a singer would make at least a 25 year plan during a singer's career. Certain roles were known as appropriate for a certain period during the maturing of the voice. This was basic knowledge to NOT expect a 25 year old to sound like a 35 or 40 year old singer.

My question? Why can we not have categories for different age groups, allowing for opportunities for younger singers and those beyond the age of 30? It is a struggle for those singers in their 30's as the opportunities diminish greatly.

My message to younger singers? Try to find a good technical teacher who can help you balance your technique early in your training. This will make you more competitive at an earlier age.

Have a good day. David

08/11/2025

27/09/2025

Ons student Zaneske van der Westhuizen tree vandag op by die Centurion Gemeenskapsfees by die Voortrekkermonument. Lekker.sing, Zaneske!

22/09/2025

20/09/2025

27/08/2025

17/08/2025

09/08/2025