Description:
Another word for a pulse could be a dip, because we’re singing one pitch, dipping just below, and then back to that same note. It’s not complicated, but it does take some practice! Two of my favorite song examples with a pulse include “Valerie” by Amy Winehouse and Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together”. Amy pulses once before moving on to other pitches, while Al pulses on that same pitch several times.
Let’s practice slow, then fast. The key to this sounding right is your ability to emphasize the main pitch, and de-emphasize the lower pitch you’re dipping to. I find it extremely helpful to use a movement, like tapping to get someone’s attention, or honking a car’s horn
Exercise 1: Pulse (slow, fast)
Bends are similar to pulses, but the pitch change is in the opposite direction: up instead of down. Our exercise will again go slow, then fast.
As with the pulse, it sounds best when you emphasize your first pitch and de-emphasize the pitch you’re bending to - in this case, the higher pitch.
Exercise 2: Bend 1-2-1, 1–21–
Just like the pulse, bends can be used on their own, or within longer riffs. Let’s learn a simple riff that starts with a bend and then walks down. If we sang it on numbers, it would be 3-4-321. Notice the second “3” is elongated and emphasized. Try it slowly with me a few times, and then we’ll keep going.
Exercise 3: Bend 343–21
Great work!
Audio:
Lessons:
- 1: Welcome
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2:
Warmup
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3:
Major Scale Patterns
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4:
Pentatonic Scale Patterns
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5:
Pulses & Bends
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6:
Conclusion
Instructor: Camille van Niekerk
Camille van Niekerk is a singer, writer and vocal instructor in Southern California. Camille began studying voice and performing in musicals at age seven. In 2010, Camille began working towards her BA in Music Education at Azusa Pacific University. She then earned her teaching credential from San Diego State University and taught classroom choral and instrumental music. Shortly after moving to LA county, Camille began her private vocal studio, providing vocal coaching, ear training, and recording for students of all ages. She is constantly refining her skills and methods for greater versatility and effectiveness. When she is not teaching, Camille enjoys singing with the L.A. Choral Lab and Ensoma Creative. She lives in San Diego with her husband and loves going to the beach, practicing yoga, reading, and cooking.