Identifying your voice type and vocal range is key to understanding how your voice works and the potential of what it can do. It helps you better understand what sounds, styles, and genres best suit you vocally. In order to help you choose the category that most accurately describes your voice, this guide will examine the various vocal types and ranges.
The Voice Type
From bass to soprano and everything in between, there is a wide range of vocal types. Each type has its own distinct sound and capabilities. To classify your voice type, you should start by taking a vocal assessment test. It can be done with the help of an experienced vocal coach. Usually, the vocal weight, tessitura, bridge location, and anatomy are all taken into consideration. Vocal weight pertains to the lightness or heaviness of the voice; tessitura is the range that a voice is most comfortable in; bridge location refers to the gap between vocal registers; and anatomy determines how resonance and articulation happen physically. With these four factors in mind, your vocal coach will be able to determine what type of voice you have.
Vocal Range
It is the time-honored practice of categorizing vocal ranges into a handful of categories. They are soprano, mezzo-soprano, alto, tenor, baritone, and bass, each with its own unique sound, capabilities, and resonance. It is important to note that no two voices will be exactly the same. To get a precise evaluation of your vocal range, it is best to speak with a vocal coach. They can assist you in determining the notes you can belt and sustain easily, as well as the highest and lowest notes you can comfortably produce.
How to Find Your Vocal Range
Learning your vocal range on your own can be a slightly harder process, but it is possible. You must pay close attention to the quality and register of your own voice as you determine your voice type. You can try recording yourself singing arpeggios on a vowel sound such as “ah” or “oh,” focusing on moving from one pitch to another. Take note of the highest and lowest notes you sang add comfortably.
The piano or keyboard can serve as a guide, but a digital instrument would be helpful in determining your vocal range. Finding your starting point is easy—simply locate the middle C (C4) on the keyboard, located at its exact center. Follow the keys downward and start with an “ah,” and take note of your lowest comfortable note. Following that, begin with the lowest note you can reach comfortably and gradually ascend until you reach your highest comfortable note. These two notes mark the boundaries of your vocal range.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to determining voice type and vocal range. Every singer is unique and, as such, has a unique set of vocal capabilities. Some men break around E4, while some women break around A4. To find yours, you will need to study your voice and its range of abilities in detail. To better understand your vocal range, it is advised to perform easy vocal exercises like singing scales, perfecting lip trills, and experimenting with note placement. Don’t worry if you initially struggle to hit certain notes or maintain a certain range; improvement can be made with consistent practice.
Looking to learn more about your voice type and vocal range? The Danny Greenberg Studio offers comprehensive services to help you do just that. Why not get started today with a consultation and vocal assessment? Contact The Danny Greenberg Studio to learn more about how we can help you find your voice.