How To Sing Jazz

Overview of Singing Jazz

Jazz singing, often referred to as “vocal jazz,” is a unique and expressive form of music that combines elements of jazz improvisation with vocal technique. It involves interpreting and performing jazz standards, as well as creating improvised melodies and scatting. Jazz singing requires a deep understanding of the genre and the ability to navigate complex harmonies, while maintaining vocal control and a sense of phrasing.

Developing jazz singing skills is crucial for aspiring jazz vocalists. It allows them to connect with the rich history of jazz and its iconic performers, while also finding their own unique voice within the genre. Jazz singing provides an opportunity for self-expression and creativity, as well as a chance to collaborate with talented jazz musicians.

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Understanding Jazz Singing

Unique Characteristics of Jazz Singing

Jazz singing is characterized by its improvisational nature, rhythmic complexity, and expressive phrasing. Jazz vocalists often use scatting, a form of vocal improvisation that involves using nonsense syllables to create melodies and rhythms. They also incorporate various vocal techniques such as vibrato, slides, and glissandos to add depth and emotion to their performances.

Vocal Control for Jazz Singing

Vocal control is essential for jazz singing. It enables singers to navigate intricate melodies, challenging intervals, and complex rhythms. Jazz vocalists must develop a strong foundation of breath support, proper vowel placement, and vocal resonance to ensure clarity and projection. They also need to master the art of singing with a relaxed jaw and tongue to achieve a smooth and effortless sound.

Navigating Complex Harmonies

Jazz music is known for its sophisticated harmonies, which often include extended chords and alterations. Singers must develop the ability to navigate these complex harmonies, including chord changes and substitutions. Understanding jazz theory and chord progressions is crucial for jazz vocalists, as it allows them to make informed melodic choices and create interesting improvisations.

Exploring Scatting Techniques

Scat singing is a hallmark of jazz music and an essential skill for jazz vocalists. It involves improvising melodies using nonsense syllables, such as “doo,” “bop,” or “skat.” Scatting allows singers to showcase their creativity and musicality while interacting with instrumentalists in a jazz ensemble. Learning scatting techniques, such as rhythmic patterns, melodic variations, and syncopation, can greatly enhance a jazz vocalist’s performance.

Perfecting Phrasing and Interpretation

Phrasing and interpretation are key elements of jazz singing. Jazz vocalists must develop a keen sense of timing, dynamics, and articulation to bring the music to life. They need to understand how to shape phrases, emphasize certain words or notes, and convey the intended emotion of a song. Studying the recordings of jazz legends and analyzing their phrasing choices can greatly assist in developing these skills.

Discovering Your Unique Voice

While it’s important to study and learn from jazz greats, it’s equally important for jazz vocalists to discover their own unique voice within the genre. Developing a distinct sound and style is what sets apart one jazz vocalist from another. Experimenting with different vocal techniques, exploring different genres, and incorporating personal experiences and emotions into performances can help jazz singers find their own artistic identity.

Incorporating Improvisation

Improvisation is at the heart of jazz music. Jazz vocalists must learn to improvise and create spontaneous melodies that complement the music and engage the audience. Developing a strong foundation in jazz theory, scales, and chord progressions is essential for effective improvisation. Practicing and experimenting with different melodic ideas, rhythmic variations, and tonal colors can help jazz vocalists become confident improvisers.

Building a Repertoire

Building a repertoire is essential for jazz vocalists. It involves learning and memorizing a diverse selection of jazz standards, including ballads, blues, and up-tempo tunes. A well-rounded repertoire allows jazz vocalists to showcase their versatility and adaptability in different musical settings. It also provides opportunities for collaboration with other musicians and allows for creative interpretation and improvisation within the context of familiar songs.

Key Considerations for Jazz Singers

Practicing and Vocal Health

Regular practice is crucial for jazz singers to develop their skills and maintain vocal health. Warm-up exercises, vocal technique drills, and repertoire practice should be incorporated into daily practice routines. It’s important to avoid overstraining the voice and to take breaks when needed. Proper hydration, healthy vocal habits, and seeking professional guidance from a vocal coach or speech-language pathologist can help prevent vocal fatigue and injury.

Listening and Studying Jazz Singers

Listening to and studying the recordings of jazz singers is an essential part of becoming a proficient jazz vocalist. It allows singers to absorb the nuances of phrasing, interpretation, and improvisation. By analyzing the performances of jazz legends such as Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Sarah Vaughan, aspiring jazz vocalists can gain insight into the artistry and techniques that define the genre.

Collaborating with Jazz Musicians

Collaboration with jazz musicians is an invaluable experience for jazz vocalists. Working with instrumentalists, such as pianists, bassists, and drummers, provides opportunities to develop musical communication skills and to learn from other musicians’ improvisational abilities. Participating in jam sessions, joining jazz ensembles, and seeking out performance opportunities can help jazz vocalists refine their craft and build connections within the jazz community.

Performance Tips

Performing live is an integral part of a jazz vocalist’s journey. To deliver a captivating performance, jazz singers should focus on connecting with the audience, conveying emotion, and engaging with the music. Developing stage presence, storytelling skills, and confidence in front of an audience is essential. It’s also important to be well-prepared and rehearsed before each performance, ensuring that the repertoire and improvisations are polished and ready to be shared.

Stage Presence and Connection

Creating a strong stage presence and connection with the audience is crucial for jazz vocalists. Engaging with the audience through eye contact, body language, and storytelling enhances the overall performance experience. Jazz singers should strive to make a genuine emotional connection with listeners, allowing them to feel the depth and authenticity of the music being performed.

Resources for Jazz Singers

Recommended Jazz Singing Books

1. “The Jazz Singer’s Handbook” by Michele Weir
2. “Vocal Improvisation: An InstruVocal Approach for Soloists, Groups, and Choirs” by Bobby McFerrin
3. “Jazz Singing: America’s Great Voices from Bessie Smith to Bebop and Beyond” by Will Friedwald
4. “Jazz Singing: Developing Artistry and Authenticity” by Dana V. Boothe
5. “Scat! Vocal Improvisation Techniques” by Bob Stoloff

Online Courses and Tutorials

1. Jazz Voice Lessons with Melissa Stylianou on Lessonface.com
2. Jazz Singing Lessons with Jane Monheit on ArtistWorks.com
3. Learn Jazz Singing Online with Jamie Davis on Udemy.com
4. Scat Singing Course with Rhiannon on CreativeLive.com
5. Vocal Jazz Techniques with Judy Niemack on MusicGurus.com

Workshops and Masterclasses

1. Jazz Camp West – An annual summer camp for jazz musicians and vocalists held in California.
2. Jazz Education Network (JEN) Conference – An international conference that offers workshops, masterclasses, and performances for jazz educators and performers.
3. The Juilliard School – Offers jazz vocal workshops and masterclasses taught by renowned jazz educators and performers.
4. The International Association of Jazz Educators (IAJE) – Hosts regional and national conferences featuring workshops and masterclasses for jazz students and professionals.
5. Vocal Jazz Workshops and Retreats with renowned jazz vocalists such as Mark Murphy and Tierney Sutton.

Jazz Singing Communities and Forums

1. Jazz Vocalist Network (jazzvocalistnetwork.com) – An online community for jazz vocalists to connect, share resources, and collaborate.
2. Jazz Corner Forum (jazzcorner.com) – A forum where jazz musicians and enthusiasts discuss various topics related to jazz music, including jazz singing.
3. Jazz Singers Group on Facebook – A Facebook group dedicated to jazz singers, providing a platform for networking, sharing performances, and discussing jazz singing techniques.
4. Jazz Singers Collective (jazzsingerscollective.org) – A non-profit organization that offers resources, workshops, and performance opportunities for jazz vocalists.
5. Jazz Singers Forum on Reddit – A subreddit where jazz vocalists and enthusiasts discuss all things related to jazz singing, share recordings, and ask for feedback.

Conclusion

In conclusion, learning how to sing jazz requires a combination of technical skill, musical knowledge, and creativity. Understanding the unique characteristics of jazz singing, such as improvisation, phrasing, and scatting, is essential. Developing vocal control, navigating complex harmonies, and building a repertoire of jazz standards are key considerations for jazz singers. Practicing regularly, listening to jazz recordings, collaborating with jazz musicians, and performing live are important steps in honing jazz singing skills. Utilizing resources such as books, online courses, workshops, and participating in jazz singing communities can greatly assist in the journey of becoming a proficient jazz vocalist. With dedication, practice, and a deep love for the genre, aspiring jazz singers can unlock their potential and sing jazz like a pro.

FAQs

1. Q: Can anyone learn to sing jazz?
   A: Yes, anyone with a passion for music and a willingness to learn can develop the skills to sing jazz. It requires dedication, practice, and a deep appreciation for the genre.
2. Q: Do I need to have a background in music theory to sing jazz?
   A: While a basic understanding of music theory can be helpful, it is not a requirement to begin learning how to sing jazz. As you progress, however, a deeper understanding of jazz theory will greatly enhance your ability to navigate complex harmonies and improvise effectively.
3. Q: How long does it take to become a proficient jazz singer?
   A: The time it takes to become proficient in jazz singing varies for each individual. It depends on factors such as prior musical experience, vocal training, practice consistency, and natural talent. With regular practice and dedicated study, progress can be made over time.
4. Q: Can I sing jazz if I have a different vocal style or background?
   A: Absolutely! Jazz is a genre that welcomes diversity and encourages individual expression. Your unique vocal style and background can add richness and depth to your jazz singing. Embrace your own voice and find ways to incorporate elements of your personal style into your jazz performances.
5. Q: Is it necessary to scat sing to be a jazz vocalist?
   A: While scatting is a traditional and iconic element of jazz singing, it is not a requirement to be a jazz vocalist. Many successful jazz singers do not incorporate scatting into their performances. Focus on developing other aspects of jazz singing, such as phrasing, interpretation, and improvisation, and explore scatting if it interests you.