How to find your singing voice | Think Like A Musician

Summary of Denyce Graves-Montgomery's Insights on Vocal Training

Key Concepts:

• Voice Types (Coloratura Soprano, Soprano, Mezzo Soprano, Alto, Contralto, Tenor, Countertenor, Baritone, Bass)
• Vocal Technique (Chiaroscuro)
• Resonance (Forehead, Cheekbones, Nose, Resonating Cavities)
• Breath Support (Diaphragm, Rib Cage, Back, Lower Abdomen)
• Articulation (Tongue, Teeth)
• Authenticity/Truth in Performance

1. The Transformative Power of Music:

• Denyce Graves-Montgomery recounts a pivotal moment when hearing a classical singer changed her life, providing her with a clear direction and purpose.
• This experience highlights the profound impact music can have on an individual's life trajectory.

2. The Necessity of Vocal Training:

• Even natural singers benefit from formal training.
• External ears (teachers/coaches) are crucial for identifying a singer's specific voice type and range.
• Vocal exercises help determine where the voice is most comfortable and beautiful.

3. Voice Type Classification:

• A detailed overview of different voice types is provided, ranging from the highest soprano (coloratura soprano) to the lowest bass.
• Other voice types mentioned include soprano, mezzo soprano, alto, contralto, tenor, countertenor, light tenor, dramatic tenor, heldentenor, and baritone.
• Voice type can evolve over time as the voice matures.

4. Developing Vocal Power and Projection:

• Achieving the ability to "cut across a really, really big orchestra" requires vocal heft and steel.
• Resonating cavities in the head (forehead, cheekbones, nose) contribute to vocal resonance and projection.
• Graves-Montgomery describes herself as having a "big, old honking voice" due to these resonating qualities.

5. Vocal Technique: Chiaroscuro:

• Vocal technique, specifically "chiaroscuro" (Italian for "light-dark"), is a lifelong pursuit.
• Chiaroscuro involves balancing "chiaro" (clear) and "scuro" (darker) elements to create a balanced sound.
• The body serves as the microphone, emphasizing the importance of physical awareness and control.

6. The Importance of Breath Support:

• Technique is paramount, with breath control being fundamental.
• Proper breath support involves engaging the diaphragm, rib cage, back, and lower abdomen.
• The analogy of a balloon is used to illustrate breath management: air must be controlled and released evenly throughout phrases, not expelled all at once.

7. Articulation and Resonance:

• Creating a "wonderful hollow sound" involves utilizing resonators and articulators (tongue, teeth).

8. Authenticity and Truth in Performance:

• The bottom line is authenticity: "if it isn't real, we know."
• Transformative performances stem from genuine expression and truth.
• Audiences are captivated by witnessing authentic moments in real-time, which can be life-changing.

9. Conclusion:

• Denyce Graves-Montgomery emphasizes the importance of vocal training, breath control, and authenticity in achieving a powerful and impactful vocal performance. The journey of a singer is a lifelong pursuit of technical mastery and genuine expression.