Is there a way to make my speaking voice more appealing?

How do I make my singing voice, and speaking voice higher?

• I am an alto in senior chorus. I am afraid to sing because, my voice may come out raspy and slightly deeper lol. When I speak and cheer it gets really weird, yesterday at a party we were making a lot of noise, and one of my friends said "OMG, you sound like a dude." It was uh...pretty creepy!

• Answer:

  A couple of things to consider. I would first tell you to go get a consult from an Eye, Ear, Nose, Throat Specialist. Sometimes quick and drastic vocal chord changes are the result of infection, injury, or other serious issues. So make sure your health isn't being jeopardized first. Then I would enlist the services of a skilled vocal coach. They would be able to do teach you some exercises that will help you regain 'some' of your range. But I caution that you have to be completely realistic where your voice is concerned. I was a soprano when I was younger and have gracefully aged into a great alto. Some things are just meant to be. Best of luck to you!