Description:
Now, we’re grouping pop and r&b because there’s a good amount of crossover between the two styles. The basics we’ll establish first are: a more conversational tone and vibrato for stylistic effect at the ends of phrases. Let’s practice this by singing on the syllable “yeah”.
The key we were just in, Eb, is good for sopranos and tenors with their higher tessitura. But for altos and basses, let’s try a lower key of Bb. This will help you utilize more of that rich chest voice tone that we want for r&b and some pop styles.
Time to put our own spin on this! In these contemporary styles, we can be much more creative with our phrasing, especially when we add embellishment like runs and falls. I’ll sing through the first half and pause on a few run ideas for you to practice. This will be back in our original key of Eb so everyone can join: upper voices with me and lower voices down the octave.
Should old acquaintance be forgot, and [M-R-D] never brought to mind [L-L-S-F]
Should old [FALL] acquaintance be forgot, and [M-S-L] auld [R-D] lang syne?
How’d it go? Those are just a few ideas; I know you can come up with more of your own.
I’ll play just the chords now, so you can have total freedom to stylize and try something new. First in the higher key of Eb, and then I’ll play in Bb.
Lessons:
- 1: Intro
- 2: Warmup
- 3: Part 1: Classic
- 4: Part 2: Pop / R&B
- 5: Part 3: Jazz
- 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.