Vocal technique encompasses a wide range of skills that singers use to express themselves effectively. Among these techniques are vibrato, legato, and staccato, each serving a unique purpose in vocal performance. In this blog, we'll dive into what these techniques are, how they're produced, and how singers can master them to enhance their singing.

1. Vibrato

Vibrato is a natural oscillation in pitch that adds warmth, depth, and richness to a singer's tone. A slight wavering or pulsating effect on sustained notes characterizes it. To produce vibrato, singers typically relax their throat muscles while maintaining steady breath support. The result is a controlled and pleasing modulation of pitch that adds expressiveness to the voice. Practicing vibrato involves exercises that focus on breath control, pitch stability, and relaxation of the larynx.

Vibrato is not a wobble, nor a tremolo. It is quicker than the wobble and faster than the tremolo and the rate of oscillation differs. Typical vibrato in singing has a frequency range of around 6 to 8 cycles per second, although it can vary slightly depending on the individual singer and the style of music they're performing.

When you first start practicing your vibrato, it might feel like you are losing control and that might feel like a funny sensation. Don’t resist it by tensing up to control your vibrato. Let it happen rather than make it happen.

2. Legato

Legato, derived from the Italian word meaning "tied together," refers to a smooth and connected style of singing. In legato singing, notes flow seamlessly from one to the next without breaks or interruptions.

This technique creates a sense of continuity and fluidity in vocal lines, allowing phrases to unfold naturally. Achieving legato requires careful attention to breath control, vowel shaping, and the coordination of vocal registers.

Singers can practice legato by singing scales, arpeggios, and melodic passages with a focus on maintaining a smooth and even tone throughout.

3. Staccato

Staccato, in contrast to legato, involves singing with short, detached, and separated notes. Each note is given a distinct and crisp articulation, creating a sense of lightness and clarity in the vocal delivery. Singers achieve staccato by quickly releasing and re-engaging the vocal folds, resulting in a percussive and punctuated sound. Staccato singing is commonly used in fast-paced passages, rhythmic patterns, and expressive passages that require precision and agility.

Practicing staccato involves exercises that focus on precise articulation, rhythmic accuracy, and control of vocal onset and release. Avoid using glottal attacks when you’re singing staccato and instead aim for your articulation to be percussive.

While you might want to use staccato or percussive phrases occasionally, remember that it’s a tool and you as the singer are not making the rhythm with your voice.

Happy Singing

By Radina V - Vocals on Stage

Breaking Down Vocal Techniques: Vibrato, Legato, and Staccato