Vocal Ranges

meef · Vocal Ranges

I am taking my first shot at vocal songwriting, and I was wondering if someone could break down the general ranges of the different voice parts so I don't end up with something completely unsingable.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Not Dead Yet

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vocal_range

Although, I think some of those ranges have really loose definitions. For example, a soprano should probably be able to hit higher than a C6. Just my opinion.

Sweeney Hyde

I don't know if you already have some knowledge or not, but it really really helps to know at least some knowledge of the theory behind vocal writting before actually sitting down to compose. Just a suggestion.

meef

I've got theory - I've been singing chorally for years.

It's just, as a bass, I've never paid specifically close attention to the higher parts and their upper limits.

Not Dead Yet - Thanks, I don't know why I didn't just check the wiki.

Sweeney Hyde

Having some form of experience, whether it be band, chorus, or private lessons, is different that learning straight up theory.

meef

Obviously. However, I'm very intuitive when it comes to theory, I've got a good ear, and I know the sound I want (not bragging, just sayin' is all). A little guess and check never hurt anyone.

KBecks

There's no reason not to give it a try -- I imagine it will be tedious actually writing the music on paper but I think it's worth it to go for it. You may want to learn a little about key signatures, etc. Or, pick your notes and get help with that later from your music teacher to actually write out your tunes.

Have fun!

windscreen

As a writer that wouldnt know a minim from a treble clef, I just write anything and transpose with midi when I find a singer. I've never had any problems with this method.

Kragey

It might also help to find characters from musicals who are almost always in the same exact range and listen to different actors/actresses singing the parts. That helps me get a perspective on the sounds and shapes a certain voice can add to a piece.

meef	Vocal Ranges I am taking my first shot at vocal songwriting, and I was wondering if someone could break down the general ranges of the different voice parts so I don't end up with something completely unsingable. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Not Dead Yet	http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vocal_range Although, I think some of those ranges have really loose definitions. For example, a soprano should probably be able to hit higher than a C6. Just my opinion.
Sweeney Hyde	I don't know if you already have some knowledge or not, but it really really helps to know at least some knowledge of the theory behind vocal writting before actually sitting down to compose. Just a suggestion.
meef	I've got theory - I've been singing chorally for years. It's just, as a bass, I've never paid specifically close attention to the higher parts and their upper limits. Not Dead Yet - Thanks, I don't know why I didn't just check the wiki.
Sweeney Hyde	Having some form of experience, whether it be band, chorus, or private lessons, is different that learning straight up theory.
meef	Obviously. However, I'm very intuitive when it comes to theory, I've got a good ear, and I know the sound I want (not bragging, just sayin' is all). A little guess and check never hurt anyone.
KBecks	There's no reason not to give it a try -- I imagine it will be tedious actually writing the music on paper but I think it's worth it to go for it. You may want to learn a little about key signatures, etc. Or, pick your notes and get help with that later from your music teacher to actually write out your tunes. Have fun!
windscreen	As a writer that wouldnt know a minim from a treble clef, I just write anything and transpose with midi when I find a singer. I've never had any problems with this method.
Kragey	It might also help to find characters from musicals who are almost always in the same exact range and listen to different actors/actresses singing the parts. That helps me get a perspective on the sounds and shapes a certain voice can add to a piece.

The Resource For Musicals

Vocal Ranges