How do I improve my voice? Extend my range?

I am a long-time choir student, and sing strong alto and tenor with a bit of soprano. How can I extend my range to sing past my weak soprano limit? Also, any tips on how to improve my voice in general? I really love to sing :)
Answer:

Hi Mary- Annalee, I have had the same stinkin' problem! I tend toward alto, and wanted to 'extend' my range. I have battled with "how-to" for a long time. It wasn't until the last couple of years, when I went to a private, Alexander Technique, vocal instructor, have I seen...heard, audible results. I decided, because performance is my career, that it was worth the money I paid, to finally be able to do it "right". It takes properly trained singers often 3 years of training before they KNOW how to sing. I have sung since I was a child - but because I didn't get great training early, my instructor and I have had to spend time undoing many bad habits I've picked up, re-learn how to breathe. HOW TO BREATHE! An accredited teacher, giving you ONE ON ONE training, is the best, most effective way to learn. Cognito is absolutely right. Until you gain a private, one on one teacher, your chances of extending your range on your own, or even in groups, is slim. You stand more chance of damaging your instrument if you continue on without instruction, trying to force it on your own. It's only money. What you gain from learning you can carry with you forever. Best!

Mary-Ann... at Yahoo! Answers Visit the source

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