When I do the beginner warmups my throat starts to hurt, like a sharp sensation and feels dry. Am I straining or doing the exercises incorrectly? What is going on here?

Hi, Carlie! If you're feeling pain, definitely stop and see if you can modify the exercise syllables to make them easier. For example, switch to a lip trill, hum, NN, NG, or singing through a straw for the easiest, gentlest vocal fold coordination. Please drop out if the exercise is going too high or low for you, too (if that's when the pain is starting). 

As for the dryness, increase your hydration! Singers always have water with them, because it's more drying to breathe through your mouth (as we do for singing) and we need those vocal folds to be well hydrated to function at their best.

If you experience persistent pain, consider checking in with your doctor to see if something's going on!