Breathing and support are key elements to proper scream vocal techniques. They will help you scream safely--to better protect your voice--and ensure that your screams and range are sustainable so you can repeat them as necessary. Regular breathing exercises and support checks will help you stay attuned and best control your vocals. When it comes to breathing, you should ensure that your stomach and lower ribs push and expand out while you breathe in. Your shoulders should stay stationary, not move upwards, when you scream. In addition, you should push down on your lower internal organs while screaming, which will keep you from straining.
Practice vocal screaming--also known as "screamo" or sing-screaming--by pinpointing the type of scream vocal you wish to perfect. Punk rock and hardcore music incorporate screams that are more of a yell or a shout, enabling the listener to focus on the meaning instead of the sound of the scream itself. Thrash and death metal tend to incorporate screams in the form of a deep growl or high-pitched screech. Post-hardcore vocals are often raspy or husky in tone.
Control the scream with your diaphragm and abdominal muscles, regulating the air intake and flow. Experiment with larynx tilt to adjust the tone of the scream. Reduce tension in the body by deliberately relaxing the throat, jaw, face, and shoulders. While screaming, focus on the feel of the uvula--the flap of skin hanging in your throat. Gargle water to experiment with controlling the uvula and how it feels when it vibrates. Focus on creating a raspy scream by activating the uvula, rather than forcing air through your vocal cords, which will quickly leave you hoarse.
While practicing your scream vocal techniques, focus on vocal safety techniques as well as the actual screams you're producing. Be sure to warm up prior to screaming; sing for 30 to 40 minutes prior to sing screaming. Drink warm water to keep your throat wet and your voice clear. Avoid taking anything that would interfere with your voice, such as drugs and alcohol, which are deyhydrating and leave you out of breath, and dairy products, which coat your throat and leave you phlegmy. Cold food and drinks should also be avoided. And once you start screaming, stop immediately if you feel any type of burning or irritation in your throat.