Singing sick

So you got sick? Like sore throat-runny nose sick? That sucks. Guess you'll have to cancel that performance/audition/competition. Or do you? The answer is no you don't (well probably unless you're literally dieing or throwing up, just use your discretion people).  There are a few things I would recomend.

Sleep.

It's simple but EXTREMELY important. If you're not getting enough sleep, then you will not heal. simple as that. You may have to go to bed super early and miss out on some fun things, but this is how you heal.

Sing an octave lower

I was sick for vocal juries (really important singing test in college) and my teacher recommended I practice and sing everything an octave lower than usual. When it was time to perform I sang it up the octave and was surprised to have my voice come out. It was awesome. In emergencies this can totally help.

Tea and honey

Drinking that tea and honey will help the cold to feel less painful. Breathing in the steam will actually help your vocal folds. I like trader joe's rooibos tea.

Neti Pot

Some singers swear by the Neti pot. It's a way to get saline solution through your nasal cavaties. It's pretty inexpensive and can help get the job done.

Cough Drops and Gummy Bears

Sugar coats the throat. If you're throat is at all irritated then this could help. My mom swears by gummy bears or fruit snacks before she sings.

Vocal zone

A good friend of mine loves vocal zone and used it when she was on a year long musical tour. She said it worked every time! You have to have it shipped because it comes from the UK. FANCY.