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There is no authoritative system of '''voice classification in non-classical music'''<ref name="Peckham">{{cite book |title= Vocal Workouts for the Contemporary Singer |last= Peckham |first= Anne |year= 2005 |publisher= Berklee Press Publications |isbn= 978-0-87639-047-4 |url-access= registration |url= https://archive.org/details/vocalworkoutsfor0000peck }}</ref> as classical terms are used to describe not merely various [[vocal range]]s, but specific vocal timbres unique to each range. These timbres are produced by classical training techniques with which most popular singers are not intimately familiar, and which even those that are do not universally employ them.<ref>{{cite work|title=Teaching Popular Music Styles|author=Kim Chandler|editor=Scott D. Harrison and Jessica O'Bryan |work= Teaching Singing in the 21st Century|page=43|publisher=[[Springer Publishing]]|year=2014}}</ref>
There is no authoritative system of '''voice classification in non-classical music'''<ref name="Peckham">{{cite book |title= Vocal Workouts for the Contemporary Singer |last= Peckham |first= Anne |year= 2005 |publisher= Berklee Press Publications |isbn= 978-0-87639-047-4 |url-access= registration |url= https://archive.org/details/vocalworkoutsfor0000peck }}</ref> as classical terms are used to describe not merely various [[vocal range]]s, but specific vocal timbres unique to each range. These timbres are produced by classical training techniques with which most popular singers are not intimately familiar, and which even those that are do not universally employ them.<ref>{{cite book|chapter=Teaching Popular Music Styles|author=Kim Chandler|chapter-url=https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-94-017-8851-9_4|editor1=Scott D. Harrison|editor2=Jessica O'Bryan |title=Teaching Singing in the 21st Century|page=35–51 (43)|publisher=[[Springer Publishing]]|year=2014|isbn=978-94-017-8850-2|doi=10.1007/978-94-017-8851-9_4}}</ref>


==Overview==
==Overview==
The term "non-classical music" is typically used to describe music in [[jazz]], [[pop music|pop]], [[blues]], [[soul music|soul]], [[country music|country]], [[Folk music|folk]], and [[Rock music|rock]] styles. In the USA, the term [[Contemporary Commercial Music|contemporary commercial music]] (CCM) is used by some vocal pedagogues.<ref name="Kappan">[http://www.speech.kth.se/prod/publications/files/3003.pdf Kappan<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Voice classification systems and [[Voice type|vocal type]] terms were initially created for the purpose of classifying voices specifically within classical singing. As new styles of music developed, the quest for common terms for vocalists throughout these styles was sought, resulting in a loose application of the existing classical music practices. This approach has led to a system with many different names for the same term or style.
The term "non-classical music" is typically used to describe music in [[jazz]], [[pop music|pop]], [[blues]], [[soul music|soul]], [[country music|country]], [[Folk music|folk]], and [[Rock music|rock]] styles. In the United States, the term [[contemporary commercial music]] (CCM) is used by some vocal pedagogues.<ref name="Kappan">[http://www.speech.kth.se/prod/publications/files/3003.pdf Kappan<!-- Bot generated title -->]{{dead link|date=October 2024}}</ref> Voice classification systems and [[Voice type|vocal type]] terms were initially created for the purpose of classifying voices specifically within classical singing. As new styles of music developed, the quest for common terms for vocalists throughout these styles was sought, resulting in a loose application of the existing classical music practices. This approach has led to a system with many different names for the same term or style.


===Approaches in classical music===
===Approaches in classical music===
There are two overall approaches within voice classification: one for opera vocalists and one for choral music parts. One of the major differences between these two in classifying voices is that choral music classifies voices entirely upon vocal range, whereas in opera classification systems many other factors are considered. Indeed, [[tessitura]] (where the voice feels most comfortable singing) and [[timbre|vocal timbre]] (the innate quality of sound to the voice) are more important factors than vocal range within opera categorization. Within opera there are several systems in use including the [[Fach|German Fach system]], the [[Italian opera]] tradition, and [[French opera]] tradition.<ref name=McKinney>{{cite book |title= The Diagnosis and Correction of Vocal Faults|last= McKinney|first= James|year= 1994|publisher= Genovex Music Group|isbn= 978-1-56593-940-0}}</ref>
There are two overall approaches within voice classification: one for opera vocalists and one for choral music parts. One of the major differences between these two in classifying voices is that choral music classifies voices entirely upon vocal range, whereas in opera classification systems many other factors are considered. Indeed, [[tessitura]] (where the voice feels most comfortable singing) and [[timbre|vocal timbre]] (the innate quality of sound to the voice) are more important factors than vocal range within opera categorization. Within opera there are several systems in use including the [[Fach|German Fach system]], the [[Italian opera]] tradition, and [[French opera]] tradition.<ref name=McKinney>{{cite book |title= The Diagnosis and Correction of Vocal Faults|last= McKinney|first= James|year= 1994|publisher= Genovex Music Group|isbn= 978-1-56593-940-0}}</ref>


All of these approaches to voice classification use some of the same terminology, which sometimes leads to confusion between the systems.<ref name="Stark">{{cite book |title= Bel Canto: A History of Vocal Pedagogy |last= Stark |first= James |year= 2003 |publisher= University of Toronto Press |isbn= 978-0-8020-8614-3}}</ref> In the operatic systems there are six basic voice types split between men and women, and each type then has several sub-types. These basic types are [[soprano]], [[mezzo-soprano]], and [[contralto]] for women, and [[tenor]], [[baritone]], and [[Bass (voice type)|bass]] for men.<ref name="Boldrey">{{cite book |title= Guide to Operatic Roles and Arias |last= Boldrey |first= Richard |year= 1994 |publisher= Caldwell Publishing Company |isbn= 978-1-877761-64-5}}</ref> Within choral music the system is collapsed into only four categories for adult singers: soprano and [[alto]] for women, and tenor and bass for men.<ref name="Smith">{{cite book |title= Choral Pedagogy |last= Smith |first= Brenda |year= 2005 |publisher= Plural Publishing, Inc |isbn= 978-1-59756-043-6}}</ref> In England, the term "male alto" is used to refer to a man who uses [[falsetto]] vocal production to sing in the alto section of a chorus. This practice is much less common outside of the UK where the term [[countertenor]] is more often applied. Countertenors are also widely employed within [[opera]] as solo vocalists. The term male alto is never used to refer to a solo vocalist. Children's voices, both male and female, are described as trebles, although the term [[boy soprano]] is widely used as well.<ref name=McKinney/>
All of these approaches to voice classification use some of the same terminology, which often leads to confusion.<ref name="Stark">{{cite book |title= Bel Canto: A History of Vocal Pedagogy |last= Stark |first= James |year= 2003 |publisher= University of Toronto Press |isbn= 978-0-8020-8614-3}}</ref> In the operatic systems there are six basic voice types split between men and women, and each type then has several sub-types. These basic types are [[soprano]], [[mezzo-soprano]], and [[contralto]] for women, and [[tenor]], [[baritone]], and [[Bass (voice type)|bass]] for men.<ref name="Boldrey">{{cite book |title= Guide to Operatic Roles and Arias |last= Boldrey |first= Richard |year= 1994 |publisher= Caldwell Publishing Company |isbn= 978-1-877761-64-5}}</ref> Within choral music the system is collapsed into only four categories for adult singers: soprano and [[alto]] for women, and tenor and bass for men.<ref name="Smith">{{cite book |title= Choral Pedagogy |last= Smith |first= Brenda |year= 2005 |publisher= Plural Publishing, Inc |isbn= 978-1-59756-043-6}}</ref> In England, the term "male alto" is used to refer to a man who uses [[falsetto]] vocal production to sing in the alto section of a chorus. This practice is much less common outside of the UK where the term [[countertenor]] is more often applied. Countertenors are also widely employed within [[opera]] as solo vocalists. The term male alto is never used to refer to a solo vocalist. Children's voices, both male and female, are described as trebles, although the term [[boy soprano]] is widely used as well.<ref name=McKinney/>


===Application to non-classical singing===
===Application to non-classical singing===
In non-classical singing, it is difficult to place voices within either system for two major reasons. First, these voice categorizations were made with the understanding that the singer would be using classical vocal technique. These specific techniques, through study and training, result in a particular kind of vocal production and vocal timbre for each voice type which is unique to classical music.<ref name="Appleman">{{cite book |title= The Science of Vocal Pedagogy: Theory and Application |last= Appelman |first= D. Ralph |year= 1986 |publisher= Indiana University Press |isbn= 978-0-253-20378-6}}</ref> This is particularly problematic when trying to apply the operatic terms, as the vocal types are more descriptive of vocal [[timbre]] and vocal facility than simple vocal [[range (music)|range]]. For example, one category of voice in opera is a [[contralto]], which is the lowest female voice in the operatic system. One of the qualifying characteristics of this voice is a deep and dark quality to the vocal sound. This quality is not entirely innate to the voice, but is developed through classical vocal training. So although a singer in another genre might have a range equivalent to a [[contralto]], they might not have a similar sound.<ref name="Appleman" />
In non-classical singing, it is difficult to place voices within either system for two major reasons. First, the traditional definitions of the different voice types were made with the assumption that singers would be using classical vocal technique. These specific techniques, through study and training, result in a particular kind of vocal production and vocal timbre for each voice type which is unique to classical music.<ref name="Appleman">{{cite book |title= The Science of Vocal Pedagogy: Theory and Application |last= Appelman |first= D. Ralph |year= 1986 |publisher= Indiana University Press |isbn= 978-0-253-20378-6}}</ref> This is particularly problematic when trying to apply the operatic terms, as the vocal types are more descriptive of vocal [[timbre]] and vocal facility than simple vocal [[range (music)|range]]. For example, one category of voice in opera is a [[contralto]], which is the lowest female voice in the operatic system. One of the qualifying characteristics of this voice is a deep and dark quality to the vocal sound. This quality is not entirely innate to the voice, but is developed through classical vocal training. So although a singer in another genre might have a range equivalent to a [[contralto]], they might not have a similar sound.<ref name="Appleman" />


“These differences in voice qualities are reflections on variation in the muscular, aerodynamic, and acoustical conditions in the larynx and in the vocal tract. The subglottal pressure, the driving force in phonation, needs to be adapted in accordance with the laryngeal conditions.” In other words, the very act of singing consistently within one technique or another literally causes the voice to physically develop in different ways, and thus change the timbre of that particular voice.<ref name="Kappan" />
“These differences in voice qualities are reflections on variation in the muscular, aerodynamic, and acoustical conditions in the larynx and in the vocal tract. The subglottal pressure, the driving force in phonation, needs to be adapted in accordance with the laryngeal conditions.” In other words, the very act of singing consistently within one technique or another literally causes the voice to physically develop in different ways, and thus change the timbre of that particular voice.<ref name="Kappan" />


Another example would be a [[coloratura soprano]] in opera. This is not only the highest female voice in opera, but also distinguished by its ability to do vocal acrobatic leaps, fast vocal runs and trills, and free movement within the highest part of the voice. A non-opera singer might be able to sing as high as a coloratura soprano, but might not be able to perform the vocal acrobatics of a coloratura soprano without classical technique and training.<ref name="Coffin">{{cite book |title= Coloratura, Lyric and Dramatic Soprano, Vol. 1 |last= Coffin |first= Berton |year= 1960 |publisher= Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc. |isbn= 978-0-8108-0188-2 |url-access= registration |url= https://archive.org/details/singersrepertoir0000coff }}</ref> Therefore, the voice classification system in opera is not applicable to singers in other genres.
Another example would be a [[coloratura soprano]] in opera. This is not only the highest female voice in opera, but also distinguished by its ability to perform fast leaps, trills, and runs with free movement within the highest part of the voice. A non-opera singer might be able to sing as high as a coloratura soprano, but may need training in classical technique to be able to perform the vocal acrobatics that a classically trained soprano can.<ref name="Coffin">{{cite book |title= Coloratura, Lyric and Dramatic Soprano, Vol. 1 |last= Coffin |first= Berton |year= 1960 |publisher= Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc. |isbn= 978-0-8108-0188-2 |url-access= registration |url= https://archive.org/details/singersrepertoir0000coff }}</ref> Therefore, the sub-categories in opera (lyric, dramatic, [[coloratura]], [[soubrette]], [[spinto]], etc.) are not applicable to non-classical singing, simply because they are too closely associated with classical vocal technique.<ref name="Peckham" />


A second problem in applying these systems is a question of range specification. This is particularly a problem when trying to apply the choral music system to the non-classical singer. The choral system was developed to delineate [[Polyphony|polyphonic]] structure and was not really intended to designate a [[vocal type]] to individual singers. In other words, choral music was designed to be broken down into four vocal sections and it is the sections themselves that are labeled [[soprano]], [[alto]], [[tenor]], and [[Bass (voice type)|bass]], not the individual singers.<ref name="Stark" /> For example, most women that sing the alto line in choirs would be considered [[mezzo-soprano]]s in opera due to their vocal timbre and their particular range resting somewhere in the middle between a soprano and contralto. A small portion of them, however, would most likely be [[contralto]]s. Therefore, one could say, "I am a mezzo-soprano singing the alto line", and another could say "I am a contralto singing the alto line." They would have two different ranges and sounds but they would be singing the same part. This is important to understand because it means that choral music is not really about [[vocal type]] but about [[vocal range]] within a specific type of music: choral music.<ref name="Smith" />
A second problem in applying these systems is a question of range specification, which is why the choral music classification system does not fit well with non-classical singers. The choral system was developed to delineate [[Polyphony|polyphonic]] structure and was not really intended to designate a [[vocal type]] to individual singers. In other words, choral music was designed to be broken down into four vocal sections and it is the sections themselves that are labeled [[soprano]], [[alto]], [[tenor]], and [[Bass (voice type)|bass]], not the individual singers.<ref name="Stark" /> For example, most women that sing the alto line in choirs would be considered [[mezzo-soprano]]s in opera due to their vocal timbre and their particular range resting somewhere in the middle between a soprano and contralto. A small portion of them, however, would most likely be [[contralto]]s. Therefore, one could say, "I am a mezzo-soprano singing the alto line", and another could say "I am a contralto singing the alto line." They would have two different ranges and sounds but they would be singing the same part. This is important to understand because it means that choral music is not really about [[vocal type]] but about [[vocal range]] within a specific type of music.<ref name="Smith" />
⚫
It is not uncommon for men with higher voices to sing the alto line or women with lower voices to sing the tenor line. It is, however, improper for a man to call himself an alto or a soprano, or a woman a tenor or bass. A woman who sings the tenor line is really a [[contralto]] when applied to the classical vocal type system, and a man who sings alto or soprano a [[countertenor]] or [[sopranist]].<ref name="Appleman" />


⚫
It is not uncommon for men with higher voices to sing the alto line or women with lower voices to sing the tenor line. It is, however, improper for a man to call himself an alto or a soprano, or a woman a tenor or bass. A woman who sings the tenor line is really a [[contralto]] when applied to the classical vocal type system, and a man who sings alto or soprano a [[countertenor]] or [[sopranist]].<ref name="Appleman" />
That being said, non-classical singers can adopt some of the terms from both systems, but not all of them, when classifying their voices. The six-part structure of the operatic system is much preferable to the four-part choral system for non-classical singers because it has three sets of vocal ranges instead of two to choose from.<ref name="Peckham" /> Most people's voices fall within the middle categories of mezzo-soprano for women and [[baritone]] for men. There are also a fair number of [[tenor]]s and [[soprano]]s, but true [[Bass (voice type)|basses]] and [[contralto]]s are rare.


The sub-categories in opera, however, should never be applied to a non-classical singer, for they are too closely associated with classical vocal technique. Words like lyric, dramatic, [[coloratura]], and other defining qualities should never be applied to a non-classical singer. Also specific kinds of voices like [[soubrette]] and [[spinto]] should not be used outside of classical singing.<ref name="Peckham" /> The main categories, however, can be, as long as they refer solely to range. A non-classical singer could use the chart that follows.
That being said, non-classical singers can adopt some of the terms from both systems, but not all of them, when classifying their voices. The six-part structure of the operatic system is much preferable to the four-part choral system for non-classical singers because it has three sets of vocal ranges instead of two to choose from.<ref name="Peckham" /> Most people's voices fall within the middle categories of mezzo-soprano for women and [[baritone]] for men. There are also a fair number of [[tenor]]s and [[soprano]]s, but true [[Bass (voice type)|basses]] and [[contralto]]s are rare. A non-classical singer could use the list that follows.


==Vocal categories and ranges for classical singers==
==Vocal categories and ranges for classical singers==
The ranges given below are approximations and are not meant to be too rigidly applied.<ref name="Peckham"/>
The ranges given below are approximations and are not meant to be too rigidly applied.<ref name="Peckham"/>


* [[Soprano]]: the highest female voice, being able to sing C{{sub|4}} (middle C) to C{{sub|6}} (high C), and possibly higher.
* [[Soprano]]: the highest female voice, being able to sing C{{sub|4}} (middle C) to C{{sub|6}} (high C), and possibly higher
* [[Mezzo-soprano]]: a female voice between A{{sub|3}} (A below middle C) and A{{sub|5}} (two octaves above A{{sub|3}}).
* [[Mezzo-soprano]]: the middle female voice, between A{{sub|3}} (A below middle C) and A{{sub|5}} (two octaves above A{{sub|3}})
* [[Contralto]]: the lowest female voice, F{{sub|3}} (F below middle C) to E{{sub|5}} (two Es above middle C). Rare contraltos possess a range similar to the tenor.
* [[Contralto]]: the lowest female voice, F{{sub|3}} (F below middle C) to E{{sub|5}} (two Es above middle C). Rare contraltos possess a range similar to the tenor
* [[Tenor]]: the highest male voice, B{{sub|2}} (2nd B below middle C) to A{{sub|4}} (A above Middle C), and possibly higher.
* [[Tenor]]: the highest male voice, B{{sub|2}} (2nd B below middle C) to A{{sub|4}} (A above Middle C), and possibly higher
* [[Baritone]]: a male voice, G{{sub|2}} (two Gs below middle C) to F{{sub|4}} (F above middle C).
* [[Baritone]]: the middle male voice, G{{sub|2}} (two Gs below middle C) to F{{sub|4}} (F above middle C)
* [[Bass (voice type)|Bass]]: the lowest male voice, E{{sub|2}} (two Es below middle C) to E{{sub|4}} (the E above middle C).
* [[Bass (voice type)|Bass]]: the lowest male voice, E{{sub|2}} (two Es below middle C) to E{{sub|4}} (the E above middle C)


Some men, in [[falsetto]] voice or as a result of certain rare physiological conditions, can sing in the same range as women. These do not fall into the female categories, instead called [[countertenor]]s within classical music. Within contemporary music, however, the use of the term ''tenor'' for these male voices would be more appropriate.<ref name="Appleman"/>
Some men, in [[falsetto]] voice or as a result of certain rare physiological conditions, can sing in the same range as women. These do not fall into the female categories and are instead called [[countertenor]]s within classical music. Within contemporary music, however, the use of the term ''tenor'' for these male voices would be more appropriate.<ref name="Appleman"/>


==Vocal pedagogical methods for contemporary commercial music==
==Vocal pedagogical methods for contemporary commercial music==
Teaching voice within non-classical music is an emerging field. Up to this point, voice teachers and voice research have been largely concentrated with classical methods of singing. However, new approaches and methods to teaching non-classical voice have recently emerged, such as the [[Complete Vocal Technique|complete vocal technique]] (CVT)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://completevocal.institute/complete-vocal-technique/|title=Complete Vocal Technique}}</ref> by Cathrine Sadolin at [[Complete Vocal Institute]] or speech level singing (SLS)<ref>http://www.speechlevelsinging.com</ref> by [[Seth Riggs]]. Another example is [[Jeannette LoVetri]]'s method known as somatic voicework.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Teaching Singers of Contemporary Music|journal=Journal of Singing|publisher=National Association of Teachers of Singing|page=380|volume=64|year=2008}}</ref> It has really only been within the last few years that music conservatories and music programs within universities have begun to embrace these alternative methodologies suitable to other kinds of vocal music. As an example, Dutch conservatories require all vocal teachers to have undergone CVT training, and all Danish conservatory vocal teaching covers the CVT method. Likewise, LoVetri teaches the somatic voicework method in the graduate vocal music department at Shenandoah University in the U.S.
Teaching voice within non-classical music is an emerging field. Up to this point, voice teachers and voice research have been largely concentrated with classical methods of singing. However, new approaches and methods to teaching non-classical voice have recently emerged, such as the [[Complete Vocal Technique|complete vocal technique]] (CVT)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://completevocal.institute/complete-vocal-technique/|title=Complete Vocal Technique}}</ref> by Cathrine Sadolin at [[Complete Vocal Institute]] or speech level singing (SLS)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.speechlevelsinging.com/ |title=Home |website=speechlevelsinging.com}}</ref> by [[Seth Riggs]]. Another example is [[Jeannette LoVetri]]'s method known as somatic voicework.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Teaching Singers of Contemporary Music|journal=Journal of Singing|publisher=National Association of Teachers of Singing|page=380|volume=64|year=2008}}</ref> It has really only been within the last few years that music conservatories and music programs within universities have begun to embrace these alternative methodologies suitable to other kinds of vocal music.


==See also==
==See also==
Line 55: Line 55:


==References==
==References==
{{reflist|2}}
{{reflist}}


==External links==
==External links==
* [https://voicefoundation.org/ "The Voice Foundation"]. Philadelphia, US
* http://www.su.edu/conservatory/tvpc/index.cfm
* [https://thevoiceworkshop.com/ "The Voice Workshop"], Manhattan, New York City
* http://www.voicefoundation.org/
* http://www.thevoiceworkshop.com/
* http://www.speech.kth.se/prod/publications/files/3003.pdf


{{Vocal Music}}
{{Vocal Music}}

Latest revision as of 04:03, 14 October 2024

There is no authoritative system of voice classification in non-classical music[1] as classical terms are used to describe not merely various vocal ranges, but specific vocal timbres unique to each range. These timbres are produced by classical training techniques with which most popular singers are not intimately familiar, and which even those that are do not universally employ them.[2]

Overview

[edit]

The term "non-classical music" is typically used to describe music in jazz, pop, blues, soul, country, folk, and rock styles. In the United States, the term contemporary commercial music (CCM) is used by some vocal pedagogues.[3] Voice classification systems and vocal type terms were initially created for the purpose of classifying voices specifically within classical singing. As new styles of music developed, the quest for common terms for vocalists throughout these styles was sought, resulting in a loose application of the existing classical music practices. This approach has led to a system with many different names for the same term or style.

Approaches in classical music

[edit]

There are two overall approaches within voice classification: one for opera vocalists and one for choral music parts. One of the major differences between these two in classifying voices is that choral music classifies voices entirely upon vocal range, whereas in opera classification systems many other factors are considered. Indeed, tessitura (where the voice feels most comfortable singing) and vocal timbre (the innate quality of sound to the voice) are more important factors than vocal range within opera categorization. Within opera there are several systems in use including the German Fach system, the Italian opera tradition, and French opera tradition.[4]

All of these approaches to voice classification use some of the same terminology, which often leads to confusion.[5] In the operatic systems there are six basic voice types split between men and women, and each type then has several sub-types. These basic types are soprano, mezzo-soprano, and contralto for women, and tenor, baritone, and bass for men.[6] Within choral music the system is collapsed into only four categories for adult singers: soprano and alto for women, and tenor and bass for men.[7] In England, the term "male alto" is used to refer to a man who uses falsetto vocal production to sing in the alto section of a chorus. This practice is much less common outside of the UK where the term countertenor is more often applied. Countertenors are also widely employed within opera as solo vocalists. The term male alto is never used to refer to a solo vocalist. Children's voices, both male and female, are described as trebles, although the term boy soprano is widely used as well.[4]

Application to non-classical singing

[edit]

In non-classical singing, it is difficult to place voices within either system for two major reasons. First, the traditional definitions of the different voice types were made with the assumption that singers would be using classical vocal technique. These specific techniques, through study and training, result in a particular kind of vocal production and vocal timbre for each voice type which is unique to classical music.[8] This is particularly problematic when trying to apply the operatic terms, as the vocal types are more descriptive of vocal timbre and vocal facility than simple vocal range. For example, one category of voice in opera is a contralto, which is the lowest female voice in the operatic system. One of the qualifying characteristics of this voice is a deep and dark quality to the vocal sound. This quality is not entirely innate to the voice, but is developed through classical vocal training. So although a singer in another genre might have a range equivalent to a contralto, they might not have a similar sound.[8]

“These differences in voice qualities are reflections on variation in the muscular, aerodynamic, and acoustical conditions in the larynx and in the vocal tract. The subglottal pressure, the driving force in phonation, needs to be adapted in accordance with the laryngeal conditions.” In other words, the very act of singing consistently within one technique or another literally causes the voice to physically develop in different ways, and thus change the timbre of that particular voice.[3]

Another example would be a coloratura soprano in opera. This is not only the highest female voice in opera, but also distinguished by its ability to perform fast leaps, trills, and runs with free movement within the highest part of the voice. A non-opera singer might be able to sing as high as a coloratura soprano, but may need training in classical technique to be able to perform the vocal acrobatics that a classically trained soprano can.[9] Therefore, the sub-categories in opera (lyric, dramatic, coloratura, soubrette, spinto, etc.) are not applicable to non-classical singing, simply because they are too closely associated with classical vocal technique.[1]

A second problem in applying these systems is a question of range specification, which is why the choral music classification system does not fit well with non-classical singers. The choral system was developed to delineate polyphonic structure and was not really intended to designate a vocal type to individual singers. In other words, choral music was designed to be broken down into four vocal sections and it is the sections themselves that are labeled soprano, alto, tenor, and bass, not the individual singers.[5] For example, most women that sing the alto line in choirs would be considered mezzo-sopranos in opera due to their vocal timbre and their particular range resting somewhere in the middle between a soprano and contralto. A small portion of them, however, would most likely be contraltos. Therefore, one could say, "I am a mezzo-soprano singing the alto line", and another could say "I am a contralto singing the alto line." They would have two different ranges and sounds but they would be singing the same part. This is important to understand because it means that choral music is not really about vocal type but about vocal range within a specific type of music.[7]

It is not uncommon for men with higher voices to sing the alto line or women with lower voices to sing the tenor line. It is, however, improper for a man to call himself an alto or a soprano, or a woman a tenor or bass. A woman who sings the tenor line is really a contralto when applied to the classical vocal type system, and a man who sings alto or soprano a countertenor or sopranist.[8]

That being said, non-classical singers can adopt some of the terms from both systems, but not all of them, when classifying their voices. The six-part structure of the operatic system is much preferable to the four-part choral system for non-classical singers because it has three sets of vocal ranges instead of two to choose from.[1] Most people's voices fall within the middle categories of mezzo-soprano for women and baritone for men. There are also a fair number of tenors and sopranos, but true basses and contraltos are rare. A non-classical singer could use the list that follows.

Vocal categories and ranges for classical singers

[edit]

The ranges given below are approximations and are not meant to be too rigidly applied.[1]

  • Soprano: the highest female voice, being able to sing C4 (middle C) to C6 (high C), and possibly higher
  • Mezzo-soprano: the middle female voice, between A3 (A below middle C) and A5 (two octaves above A3)
  • Contralto: the lowest female voice, F3 (F below middle C) to E5 (two Es above middle C). Rare contraltos possess a range similar to the tenor
  • Tenor: the highest male voice, B2 (2nd B below middle C) to A4 (A above Middle C), and possibly higher
  • Baritone: the middle male voice, G2 (two Gs below middle C) to F4 (F above middle C)
  • Bass: the lowest male voice, E2 (two Es below middle C) to E4 (the E above middle C)

Some men, in falsetto voice or as a result of certain rare physiological conditions, can sing in the same range as women. These do not fall into the female categories and are instead called countertenors within classical music. Within contemporary music, however, the use of the term tenor for these male voices would be more appropriate.[8]

Vocal pedagogical methods for contemporary commercial music

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Teaching voice within non-classical music is an emerging field. Up to this point, voice teachers and voice research have been largely concentrated with classical methods of singing. However, new approaches and methods to teaching non-classical voice have recently emerged, such as the complete vocal technique (CVT)[10] by Cathrine Sadolin at Complete Vocal Institute or speech level singing (SLS)[11] by Seth Riggs. Another example is Jeannette LoVetri's method known as somatic voicework.[12] It has really only been within the last few years that music conservatories and music programs within universities have begun to embrace these alternative methodologies suitable to other kinds of vocal music.

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b c d Peckham, Anne (2005). Vocal Workouts for the Contemporary Singer. Berklee Press Publications. ISBN 978-0-87639-047-4.
  2. ^ Kim Chandler (2014). "Teaching Popular Music Styles". In Scott D. Harrison; Jessica O'Bryan (eds.). Teaching Singing in the 21st Century. Springer Publishing. p. 35–51 (43). doi:10.1007/978-94-017-8851-9_4. ISBN 978-94-017-8850-2.
  3. ^ a b Kappan[dead link‍]
  4. ^ a b McKinney, James (1994). The Diagnosis and Correction of Vocal Faults. Genovex Music Group. ISBN 978-1-56593-940-0.
  5. ^ a b Stark, James (2003). Bel Canto: A History of Vocal Pedagogy. University of Toronto Press. ISBN 978-0-8020-8614-3.
  6. ^ Boldrey, Richard (1994). Guide to Operatic Roles and Arias. Caldwell Publishing Company. ISBN 978-1-877761-64-5.
  7. ^ a b Smith, Brenda (2005). Choral Pedagogy. Plural Publishing, Inc. ISBN 978-1-59756-043-6.
  8. ^ a b c d Appelman, D. Ralph (1986). The Science of Vocal Pedagogy: Theory and Application. Indiana University Press. ISBN 978-0-253-20378-6.
  9. ^ Coffin, Berton (1960). Coloratura, Lyric and Dramatic Soprano, Vol. 1. Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc. ISBN 978-0-8108-0188-2.
  10. ^ "Complete Vocal Technique".
  11. ^ "Home". speechlevelsinging.com.
  12. ^ "Teaching Singers of Contemporary Music". Journal of Singing. 64. National Association of Teachers of Singing: 380. 2008.
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