Singing Tips for Engineers

You've hit on a crucial aspect of what makes a singer sound "resonant" and "connected" to their sound! It's not just about hitting the right notes, but how those notes are produced and sustained. Here's a breakdown of the elements you're observing:

1. Resonance and Vowel Tuning:

• What it is: Resonance is the amplification and modification of sound waves within the vocal tract (pharynx, mouth, and nasal cavities). Singers manipulate these spaces to enhance certain frequencies, creating a richer, fuller tone.

• How it works:

  • They tune their vocal tract to resonate with the frequencies of the notes they're singing.

  • This involves subtle adjustments to the shape of the mouth, tongue, and soft palate.

  • Vowel modification plays a significant role. Singers often slightly adjust vowel sounds to find the optimal resonance, especially in higher registers.

• Why it's important: Resonance adds depth, power, and carrying ability to the voice. It allows singers to be heard clearly, even over an orchestra or in a large hall.

2. Connectedness and Legato:

• What it is: Legato is an Italian term meaning "tied together." In singing, it refers to the smooth, seamless connection between notes and syllables.

• How it works:

  • Singers maintain a consistent airflow and energy throughout a phrase.

  • They avoid abrupt starts and stops, creating a flowing, continuous line.

  • They use subtle vocal techniques to blend vowels and consonants, minimizing any sense of separation.

• Why it's important: Legato creates a sense of musical phrasing and emotional expression. It allows the listener to focus on the melody and the meaning of the words, rather than being distracted by choppy or disconnected sounds.

• The "cloud of resonance" you describe: This is the result of proper breath support coupled with the singers ability to maintain the resonance through the entire phrase. The resonace is the consistent element that ties the phrase together.

3. Breath Support:

• What it is: Breath support is the foundation of good singing. It involves using the diaphragm and abdominal muscles to control airflow.

• How it works:

  • Singers take deep, efficient breaths and maintain consistent pressure on the air as they sing.

  • This allows them to sustain notes and phrases without straining their vocal cords.

  • This also allows for a consistant tone.

• Why it's important: Proper breath support provides the power and control needed for resonant, legato singing. It prevents vocal fatigue and allows for a wider range of dynamics and expression.

4. Why Singers Do This:

• Aesthetic Quality: It sounds beautiful! Resonant, legato singing is pleasing to the ear and creates a sense of artistry.

• Vocal Health: Proper technique minimizes strain on the vocal cords, preventing injury and promoting longevity.

• Communication: It allows singers to convey emotion and meaning more effectively. A connected, resonant sound is more expressive and engaging.

• Projection: Resonance helps the voice carry, allowing singers to be heard in large spaces.

• Musicality: This technique allows the singer to create longer musical phrases, and smoother musical lines.

In summary: The "cloud of resonance" you're hearing is the result of a complex interplay of breath support, resonance tuning, and legato technique. It's a hallmark of skilled singers and a key element of beautiful, expressive vocal performance.