Finding your vocal range is an essential first step for any artist or musician who’s looking to take the next step in their music career. The beauty of singing is the stylistic identity of every singer. From the blues to jazz, once you find your true range, you’ll be able to play with musical styles of all kinds and learn new techniques that can help you discover your true artistry.
Whether you sing for fun or you’re looking to hone in on your talents, discovering your vocal range can help you find songs that will fit the unique tone and range of your voice.
Let’s dive in:
Why you should find your range
If you want to be a singer, finding your range is the first step to learning how to use your voice to the best of your ability. Once you discover your vocal range, you’ll be impressed with your capacity to sing songs confidently with your newfound tone and range.
Misusing your voice can cause damage to your vocal cords. That’s why finding your range is so important to protecting your talents. You can use your range to help you discover songs you can sing comfortably that don’t strain your voice or cause any unwanted harm.
As you work towards strengthening your vocal cords and practice with songs that fit your range, you’ll be able to take your singing voice to the next level.
How to find your vocal range
It can be relatively easy to find your vocal range. Here’s how you can get started:
- Find middle C on the Piano. If you don’t have a piano readily available, you can try downloading an app like Perfect Piano.
- Once you have your hands on a piano, find C4. From there, you can find the lowest note you can sing by singing as you follow the keys downwards.
- Then, to find the highest note you can sing, follow the keys upwards until you find the highest note.
- Make sure you’re singing as naturally as possible with each key you press.
From there, you’ll need to know the six different voice types:
Bass
The lowest range for a male singer. Typically stays between E2 to E4. However, some voices can get even lower than that.
Baritone
This is considered the midrange for male singers. Lower than tenor but higher than a bass, a baritone voice range is between A2 and A5.
Tenor
The highest range for a male singer. Typically stays with a range of C3 to C5. Some men can hit notes higher than a C5. This voice range is called a countertenor.
Alto
The low range for a female singer. Singers typically stay between G3 to F5.
Mezzo-Soprano
The middle range for a female singer. Typically artists stay between A3 to G5.
Soprano
The highest range for a female singer. Singers typically stay between B3 and can go up to A5.
Use the highest note and the lowest note you can sing on the piano to help you discover which voice type you have. If you’re still unsure, reach out to a professional for guidance.
The beauty of our voices is the complexity of each range and uniqueness in tone. Pay attention to what feels comfortable to you and don’t overdo it. You want to protect your cords as much as possible.
Tips and tricks to help you get started
- Never underestimate the power of warming up. Making a habit of warming up will help you loosen up your cords and help you sing to the best of your ability.
- If you’re interested in taking your voice to the next level, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. Professionals can help you hone in on the unique characteristics of your voice. At MI, we have an online and in-person vocal program that can help you explore your stylistic identity.
- Every voice is unique. Don’t expect to be able to sing the same way as any of the artists you idolize. Once you find your strengths, you’ll be impressed with your unique talents and range. Choose a song you want to practice with and track your progress with that song. Focus on your voice, your vocal range, and the distinctive attributes of your capabilities, you’re sure to be impressed with your growth.
- Once you find your vocal range, lean on professional singers with the same range for inspiration. Understanding their vocal range and how they utilize it can help you enhance your skills and sharpen your range.
- Seek comfort. When you’re singing a song, the notes should sound comfortable for you and leave you feeling confident.
At MI, we specialize in helping individuals find their unique range and honing in on their skillset. If you’re unsure of your range but want to start taking your singing to the next level, we have a vocal program for you.
Contact us today for more information.