Alto Songs To Sing

Overview of “Alto Songs to Sing”

When searching for “alto songs to sing,” it is evident that the intent is to find songs that are suitable for alto voices. Altos are known for their lower vocal range and rich, warm tone. It is important for alto singers to find songs that highlight their unique voice and allow them to showcase their abilities.

Importance of Finding Songs Tailored to Alto Singers

Finding songs specifically tailored to alto singers is crucial for a successful performance. Singing songs that are outside of an alto’s range or tessitura can strain the voice and lead to vocal damage. Additionally, singing songs that do not suit an alto’s vocal characteristics may not allow them to fully express their emotions and musicality. By choosing songs that are well-suited to an alto’s voice, they can deliver a captivating and powerful performance.

Musical Theater Songs for Alto Voices

Song 1: “Defying Gravity” from Wicked

“Defying Gravity” is a popular musical theater song that showcases the power and range of an alto voice. This song, sung by the character Elphaba, allows alto singers to display their vocal strength and control.

Song 2: “I Dreamed a Dream” from Les Misérables

“I Dreamed a Dream” is a classic musical theater song that is often performed by alto singers. This emotionally charged song provides an opportunity for altos to demonstrate their ability to convey deep emotions through their voice.

Song 3: “On My Own” from Les Misérables

“On My Own” is another iconic song from Les Misérables that is frequently performed by alto singers. This song allows altos to showcase their ability to tell a story through their voice and capture the hearts of the audience.

Song 4: “As Long As He Needs Me” from Oliver!

“As Long As He Needs Me” is a powerful song from the musical Oliver! that is well-suited for alto voices. This song offers altos the chance to demonstrate their vocal control and convey a range of emotions.

Characteristics of Musical Theater Songs for Altos

Musical theater songs for altos often require a strong and resonant lower range. These songs typically have a dramatic or emotional storyline, allowing altos to engage the audience through their expressive singing. Altos can showcase their ability to belt or use a mix of chest and head voice to bring power and depth to their performances.

Pop Songs for Alto Voices

Song 1: “Someone Like You” by Adele

“Someone Like You” is a popular pop song that is well-suited for alto voices. This heartfelt ballad allows altos to showcase their rich and soulful tones while conveying the emotional depth of the lyrics.

Song 2: “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele

“Rolling in the Deep” is another hit song by Adele that is frequently performed by alto singers. This powerful anthem allows altos to demonstrate their vocal control and dynamic range.

Song 3: “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen

“Hallelujah” is a timeless song that has been covered by numerous artists. This song provides an opportunity for alto singers to showcase their ability to deliver a heartfelt and soul-stirring performance.

Song 4: “Feeling Good” by Nina Simone

“Feeling Good” is a jazz-influenced pop song that is often performed by alto singers. This song allows altos to display their versatility by incorporating elements of jazz and soul into their performance.

Unique Qualities of Pop Songs for Alto Voices

Pop songs for alto voices often feature emotive lyrics and melodies that allow altos to convey a sense of vulnerability or strength. These songs can showcase an alto’s ability to infuse their unique vocal color and interpretation into popular music. Altos can experiment with different vocal techniques and add their own personal flair to these songs.

Jazz Songs for Alto Voices

Song 1: “My Funny Valentine” by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart

“My Funny Valentine” is a jazz standard that is frequently performed by alto singers. This song provides an opportunity for altos to showcase their ability to interpret and improvise within the jazz genre.

Song 2: “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess

“Summertime” is a well-known jazz song from the opera Porgy and Bess. This song allows altos to showcase their ability to deliver sultry and bluesy vocals, capturing the essence of jazz.

Song 3: “God Bless the Child” by Billie Holiday

“God Bless the Child” is a jazz classic performed by alto singers. This song provides altos with the opportunity to showcase their ability to deliver emotionally charged and soulful performances.

Song 4: “Fly Me to the Moon” by Bart Howard

“Fly Me to the Moon” is a popular jazz song that is often performed by alto singers. This song allows altos to showcase their ability to deliver smooth and velvety vocals, capturing the essence of the jazz genre.

Improvisational Opportunities and Vocal Stylings in Jazz Songs for Altos

Jazz songs for altos often provide opportunities for improvisation, allowing singers to showcase their creativity and musicality. Altos can experiment with vocal stylings such as scatting, melodic embellishments, and rhythmic variations. These songs require a strong sense of rhythm and the ability to deliver nuanced and expressive performances.

Classical Songs for Alto Voices

Song 1: “Dido’s Lament” from Dido and Aeneas by Henry Purcell

“Dido’s Lament” is a powerful classical aria that is frequently performed by alto singers. This song allows altos to showcase their ability to deliver emotionally charged and technically demanding performances.

Song 2: “Ombra mai fu” from Serse by George Frideric Handel

“Ombra mai fu” is a beautiful aria from Handel’s opera Serse. This song provides an opportunity for altos to showcase their ability to deliver lyrical and expressive performances.

Song 3: “Erbarme dich, mein Gott” from St. Matthew Passion by Johann Sebastian Bach

“Erbarme dich, mein Gott” is a poignant aria from Bach’s St. Matthew Passion. This song allows altos to showcase their ability to deliver deeply emotional and introspective performances.

Song 4: “Voi che sapete” from The Marriage of Figaro by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

“Voi che sapete” is a charming aria from Mozart’s opera The Marriage of Figaro. This song provides altos with the opportunity to showcase their ability to deliver playful and expressive performances.

Technical Demands and Expressive Qualities of Classical Songs for Altos

Classical songs for altos often require a high level of technical skill, including precise intonation, breath control, and vocal agility. These songs often have complex melodic lines and intricate phrasing, allowing altos to demonstrate their vocal range and control. Altos can showcase their ability to deliver nuanced and emotionally resonant performances in the classical repertoire.

Tips for Choosing and Performing Alto Songs

Consider Vocal Range and Tessitura

When choosing songs for alto voices, it is important to consider the vocal range and tessitura. Altos typically have a lower vocal range, so selecting songs that stay within a comfortable range will ensure a successful performance.

Pay Attention to Emotional Connection

When selecting songs, it is essential for altos to choose pieces that resonate with them emotionally. Connecting with the lyrics and the story behind the song will allow altos to deliver a more authentic and compelling performance.

Seek Professional Guidance If Needed

If altos are unsure about which songs are suitable for their voice, seeking guidance from a vocal coach or music teacher can be beneficial. These professionals can provide valuable insight and help altos select songs that highlight their unique vocal qualities.

Practice and Preparation Tips

To deliver a stellar performance, altos should dedicate ample time to practice and preparation. Working on vocal technique, interpretation, and emotional delivery will ensure that altos are well-prepared and confident on stage.

Additional Suggestions for Finding and Interpreting Songs for Altos

• Explore different genres to find songs that suit an alto’s voice and personal style.
• Listen to recordings of other alto singers to gain inspiration and ideas for interpretation.
• Experiment with different vocal techniques and dynamics to add depth and variety to performances.
• Consider collaborating with other musicians or vocalists to create unique arrangements of songs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the perfect alto songs to sing is essential for showcasing the unique qualities of an alto voice. Whether performing musical theater, pop, jazz, or classical songs, altos have a wide range of options to choose from. By selecting songs that suit their vocal range, tessitura, and emotional connection, altos can deliver captivating and powerful performances. With proper guidance, practice, and preparation, altos can find and interpret songs that highlight their individuality and leave a lasting impression on their audience.

FAQs

1. Can altos sing songs written for other vocal ranges?
While altos can technically sing songs written for other vocal ranges, it is important to choose songs that suit their own range and tessitura. Singing songs that are outside of an alto’s comfortable range can strain the voice and may not allow them to fully showcase their vocal abilities.

2. Are there any specific techniques that altos should focus on when singing alto songs?
Altos should work on developing a strong lower range, as this is a defining characteristic of their voice type. Additionally, altos can experiment with vocal techniques such as belting, mixing chest and head voice, and adding vocal embellishments to add depth and expression to their performances.

3. How can altos find sheet music for alto songs?
There are various online platforms and music stores where altos can find sheet music specifically tailored to their voice type. Additionally, working with a vocal coach or music teacher can help altos find and access appropriate sheet music.

4. Can altos perform songs in different languages?
Yes, altos can certainly perform songs in different languages. However, it is important to pay attention to the specific vocal demands and pronunciation of the chosen language. Working with a language coach or vocal coach can help altos navigate the challenges of singing in different languages.

5. Are there any specific warm-up exercises that are beneficial for altos?
Altos can benefit from warm-up exercises that focus on their lower range and help them develop vocal resonance. Exercises that involve descending scales, lip trills, and humming can be particularly helpful for altos. Working on breath control and vocal agility through exercises such as vocal sirens and staccato scales can also benefit altos.