Contemporary Voices & Vocal Health

Why does everyone ask me if I think Taylor Swift is an alto or a soprano? Do we even know if she's customizing her songs for her style/sound/voice etc?? She doesn't need the old-fashioned classifications for what she is doing (I mean, if I'm being frank, she's probably a mezzo-soprano - i.e. something in the middle, and because she was famous from such a young age we have gotten the chance to hear her voice mature as she's gone through her late teens into her 30s! Of COURSE the voice will change as we mature).

Which voice types are you drawn to? Are the choral or operatic voice types reflective of most popular or musical theater styles? What qualities do you notice about individual singers you like? How will you begin to adapt the music that you enjoy singing as you learn about ways to take care of your own voice?

How has the study of the voice shifted since the early days of bel canto?

Voice science, which supports voice study no matter the genre, has evolved and grown alongside both classical and contemporary commercial music styles. We can now (with relative ease) utilize MRIs, high-fidelity microphones, acoustic paneling, and more to research sounds. Understanding the function of the voice for medical science has greatly improved our ability to keep the voice healthy over time. We know the importance of vocal rest, rehabilitation after injury, and hormonal shifts as we age better than ever. Laser surgery and advanced medicine has allowed many singers to go on performing (such as Steven Tyler and Julie Andrews - Dr. Steven Zeitels operated on both singers).

Lesson Summary

The study of the voice has evolved significantly since the early days of bel canto. Here are some key points to consider:

• Voice science now supports voice study across different music genres.
• It has expanded to encompass classical and contemporary commercial music styles.
• Various voice types exist, each with unique characteristics and strengths.
• Choral and operatic voice types may differ from those found in popular or musical theater styles.

When considering individual singers, you may notice the following qualities:

• Tonal quality
• Range
• Articulation
• Emotional expression

Understanding the changing landscape of voice study is crucial for appreciating the diverse talents and techniques present in today's musical world.