Description:
Sharpness is often caused by the following factors:
Overshooting the Note
When leaping to a higher pitch, it’s easy to overshoot. To fix this, think "down" instead of "up," and aim for the bottom of the target pitch, then gradually slide up to the note.
Song Example: "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"
Musical Notes: C – E – G – G# – A
Lyrics:
"Somewhere over the rainbow,
Way up high,
And the dreams that you dream of
Once in a lullaby."
Musical Notes: C – E – G – G# – A
Lyrics:
"Somewhere over the rainbow,
Way up high,
And the dreams that you dream of
Once in a lullaby."
Tip: Visualize landing softly on the target note, and make sure to start just below the pitch before sliding into it.
Head Voice for Lower Pitches
Using head voice on low notes causes sharpness. Transition to chest voice when descending into the lower ranges, or add a slight gap for smoother transitions.
Song Example: "Hallelujah"
Musical Notes: C – E – G – A – B
Lyrics:
"Hallelujah, Hallelujah,
Hallelujah, Hallelujah."
Musical Notes: C – E – G – A – B
Lyrics:
"Hallelujah, Hallelujah,
Hallelujah, Hallelujah."
Tip: Focus on feeling the vibration in your chest for lower notes, and switch to head voice only when necessary. Keep a relaxed chest voice to avoid sharpness.
Overly Narrow Vowels
Narrow vowels (like "OO" or "EE") can pull you sharp. Open the vowel shape for a smoother, more accurate pitch.
Song Example: "Ode to Joy"
Musical Notes: D – E – F – E – D
Lyrics:
"Ode to joy,
Ode to joy,
Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee,
God of glory, Lord of love."
Musical Notes: D – E – F – E – D
Lyrics:
"Ode to joy,
Ode to joy,
Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee,
God of glory, Lord of love."
Tip: Open your vowels a little, especially in "Ode" to make it rounder and avoid a narrow "EE" sound.
Lessons:
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.