Description:
Sometimes pitch issues are more about the structure of the song. Let’s explore these issues and work on solutions:
Large Leaps
Large jumps between notes can make it harder to stay on pitch. Work on larger interval leaps to gain control over your pitch.
Song Example: "Defying Gravity"
Musical Notes: F – A – C – D – F – G – A
Lyrics:
"Defying gravity,
And you can’t pull me down."
Musical Notes: F – A – C – D – F – G – A
Lyrics:
"Defying gravity,
And you can’t pull me down."
Tip: Practice leaps with controlled, stable airflow, and imagine using a trampoline to land gently on each note.
Key Changes
Changing keys mid-song can make tuning tricky. When practicing a song with a key change, focus on adjusting your vowel shapes and air support for smoother transitions.
Song Example: "Let It Go"
Musical Notes: G – A – B – C – D – E – F#
Lyrics:
"Let it go, let it go,
Can’t hold it back anymore.
Let it go, let it go,
Turn away and slam the door."
Musical Notes: G – A – B – C – D – E – F#
Lyrics:
"Let it go, let it go,
Can’t hold it back anymore.
Let it go, let it go,
Turn away and slam the door."
Tip: Practice singing both keys separately, and then transition with breath support and mental focus on staying steady.
Singing A Cappella
Singing without accompaniment can sometimes make tuning difficult. Use a solid internal sense of pitch to stay on track and practice songs with a simple drone to lock in your tuning.
Song Example: "Amazing Grace"
Musical Notes: G – A – B – C – D – E
Lyrics:
"Amazing grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see."
Musical Notes: G – A – B – C – D – E
Lyrics:
"Amazing grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see."
Tip: Practice with a drone note (such as a piano or tuning fork) to help reinforce the key and ensure tuning accuracy throughout the song.
By focusing on these tips and exercises, you can address both flatness and sharpness in your singing and improve your overall pitch control.
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.