When working with singers I often come across the question: “ Is learning singing in a classical way a disadvantage when I perform modern popular music? “ or “ Will I maybe because of long term singing in a rock group lose all chances for an eventual breakthrough in the field of opera or choral singing career? “

My fundamental answer is that the study of basic elements of vocal technique does not differ between single music genres. I recommend in any case the knowledge and mastering of basic tools for using the vocal body and if it is all about singing for fun or for a performance on concert stages.

Always, when singing it is important to consider the guideline which assures suitable conditions for keeping a healthy gradation of the singing condition and technical voice completion. The difference between the individual styles of performance appear not until in the following, later phases of the singing development where the central focus is directed in research of individual resonance spaces, colour casts and speciality of stage presence, as well as eventual usage of help (microphone, instrumental accompaniment…)

Criteria of good singing

• natural, relaxed voice,
• full acoustics,
• clear and understandable diction,
• interesting and diverse colouring,
• reasonable interpretation,
• honesty of the singing expression,
• respectful attitude to musical literature.

Acquiring knowledge and learning of vocal skills

• warming up the vocal body,
• correct singing breath,
• correct singing posture
• activating the singing muscles,
• singing starting point,
• recognition of resonance space,
• articulation and diction,
• adjustment vowels,
• adjustment registers,
• extending the singing range,
• chamber play,
• studying music literature,
• developing singing expression.

Production and performance of the acquired skills

• prepare singing performances
• cooperation of vocal casts
• permanent presence on the stage
• recording
• concert tours

In my opinion a basis for further training of vocal skills means most of all a healthy and natural voice. It is true for performing in the field of art music, and also in the field of popular music. On my way of everyday meeting singers I acquired an insight to many singing characters, so I can surely assert that singing in a qualitative choir under a professional faultless leadership cannot harm anyone, on the contrary, it offers a solid fundament for limitless singing growth in every imaginable music genres.

Have you ask yourself about the level of singing pre-knowlege or you’re interested for more about singing warm-up, correct singing breathing, vowels and consonants articulation, posture and expression, polyphonic singing, vocal range (singing high and low tones) or about complete song preparing… Check out The Basics of Vocal Technique.

Did you find in the article “Is learning singing in a classical way a disadvantage when I perform modern popular music?” some useful advice for yourself?

Robert Feguš
www.petje.pro