How To Sing With Head Voice

Overview of Head Voice

Head voice is an essential component of a singer’s vocal range. It refers to the higher register of the voice that resonates in the head rather than the chest. When singing in head voice, the sound is lighter, clearer, and more agile compared to the lower chest voice. It allows singers to reach higher notes with control and precision.

Developing head voice is crucial for singers of all genres. It adds depth and versatility to their vocal abilities, expanding their range and allowing them to perform a wide variety of songs. Whether you’re a pop singer aiming for those high notes, an opera singer looking to master coloratura passages, or a musical theater performer striving for expressive vocal control, cultivating a strong and reliable head voice is paramount.

Techniques and Exercises for Accessing Head Voice

To access and develop head voice, singers need to focus on several key techniques and exercises.

Proper Breath Support

Strong breath support is the foundation of healthy and controlled singing. When accessing head voice, it’s important to engage the diaphragm and use proper breath control. This involves taking deep breaths from the diaphragm and maintaining a steady flow of air while singing. By mastering breath support, singers can achieve stability, control, and endurance in their head voice.

Vocal Placement

Vocal placement refers to the way sound resonates within the vocal tract. For accessing head voice, singers should focus on a forward placement, where the sound is directed towards the front of the face rather than the back of the throat. This allows for a clearer and more resonant head voice. One exercise to achieve this is the “ng” sound, where singers hum on a nasal “ng” while focusing on the vibrations in the front of the face.

Warm-up and Strengthening Exercises

Before diving into head voice, it’s important to warm up the voice and prepare the vocal cords. Gentle warm-up exercises such as lip trills, sirens, and gentle scales can help loosen the muscles and increase flexibility. Additionally, specific strengthening exercises, like sirens on an “oo” vowel or descending scales on “ee,” can target the muscles necessary for accessing head voice.

Resonance and Projection Techniques

Resonance and projection are key elements of a powerful head voice. Singers can enhance resonance by focusing on vowel modification. For example, modifying an “ah” vowel to an “uh” or “eh” can help create a more open and resonant sound. Projection techniques, such as imagining the sound reaching a distant point or visualizing the sound bouncing off the walls, can also help singers project their head voice with confidence and clarity.

Control and Range Expansion in Head Voice

Developing control and expanding the range of head voice requires dedicated practice and attention to detail.

Developing Clarity and Power

To achieve clarity and power in head voice, singers should work on exercises that target vocal agility and precision. This includes practicing scales and arpeggios in the head voice range, gradually increasing the speed and accuracy. Focusing on proper vowel formation and consistent breath support will also contribute to clarity and power in head voice.

Extending the Range

Expanding the range of head voice involves gradually pushing the boundaries and exploring higher notes. This can be done through exercises such as sirens, where singers slide up and down in their head voice range, gradually aiming for higher pitches. It’s important to approach range expansion with patience and avoid straining or pushing the voice too far beyond its limits.

Smooth Transitions between Chest Voice and Head Voice

Seamlessly transitioning between chest voice and head voice is crucial for a well-rounded vocal performance. Practice exercises that help blend the two registers, such as sirens that start in chest voice and gradually transition to head voice, or lip trills that move from low to high notes. By developing a smooth and controlled transition, singers can create a more cohesive and versatile sound.

Articulation and Diction Exercises

Clear articulation and diction are essential for effective communication in head voice. Singers should practice exercises that focus on crisp consonants and precise vowel formation. Tongue twisters, lip trills with specific consonants, and singing through challenging lyrics can all help improve articulation and diction in head voice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When working on head voice, it’s important to be aware of common mistakes that can hinder progress and potentially damage the voice.

Overexertion and Straining

Pushing the voice too hard or straining to reach high notes can lead to vocal fatigue and potential injury. It’s important to approach head voice exercises with patience and build up strength gradually. Avoid forcing the voice and listen to the body’s signals to prevent overexertion.

Inconsistent Breath Control

Inconsistent breath control can result in an unstable and unreliable head voice. It’s essential to maintain a steady flow of air and engage the diaphragm consistently. Practice exercises specifically targeting breath control to develop a strong foundation for head voice.

Neglecting Proper Vocal Warm-up and Cool-down

Skipping warm-up exercises or neglecting to cool down the voice after singing can put unnecessary strain on the vocal cords. Proper warm-up and cool-down routines help prepare the voice for singing and promote vocal health. Allocate time for gentle warm-up exercises and vocal relaxation techniques before and after singing sessions.

Lack of Confidence and Expression

Head voice requires confidence and expression to fully utilize its potential. Many singers hold back due to self-doubt or fear of sounding “weak” in their head voice. It’s important to embrace and explore the unique qualities of head voice, allowing for emotional expression and vulnerability in performance.

Tips for Maintaining and Improving Head Voice

Maintaining and improving head voice requires consistent practice and a few key habits.

Regular Vocal Exercises and Practice

Consistency is key when it comes to maintaining and improving head voice. Set aside regular practice sessions dedicated to head voice exercises and techniques. Incorporate vocal warm-ups, range exercises, and repertoire that specifically target head voice. By practicing regularly, singers can strengthen their head voice and ensure its reliability.

Healthy Vocal Habits

Maintaining a healthy vocal lifestyle is essential for the longevity of head voice. Stay hydrated, avoid excessive shouting or speaking loudly, and prioritize vocal rest when needed. Additionally, be mindful of any vocal strain or discomfort and seek professional guidance if necessary.

Seeking Professional Guidance and Vocal Training

Working with a vocal coach or seeking professional guidance can greatly enhance the development of head voice. A qualified vocal instructor can provide personalized feedback, identify areas for improvement, and guide singers through specific exercises tailored to their voice. Professional training can also help prevent vocal injury and provide valuable insights into proper technique and repertoire selection.

Showcasing Head Voice in Different Music Genres

Head voice is a versatile tool that can be showcased in various music genres. Here are some examples:

Pop and Contemporary Music

In pop and contemporary music, head voice often adds a touch of sweetness and vulnerability to a song. It’s commonly used for high melodic lines, vocal runs, and emotional climaxes. Singers like Mariah Carey, Ariana Grande, and Bruno Mars utilize head voice to create memorable and impactful moments in their performances.

Classical and Operatic Repertoire

Head voice is a fundamental aspect of classical and operatic singing. It allows singers to navigate complex ornamentation, execute coloratura passages, and effortlessly reach the high notes required in this repertoire. Opera legends such as Luciano Pavarotti and Maria Callas demonstrated impeccable control and power in their head voice, captivating audiences worldwide.

Musical Theater and Jazz

Head voice plays a crucial role in musical theater and jazz performances. It enables singers to convey a wide range of emotions and characterizations. From soaring ballads to intricate jazz improvisations, head voice allows performers to showcase their technical prowess and storytelling abilities. Singers like Lea Salonga and Ella Fitzgerald exemplify the versatility and expressiveness of head voice in these genres.

Conclusion

Developing and mastering head voice is a journey that requires dedication, patience, and consistent practice. By focusing on proper techniques such as breath support, vocal placement, warm-up exercises, and resonance techniques, singers can access and strengthen their head voice. Control and range expansion in head voice can be achieved through exercises targeting clarity, power, range extension, and smooth transitions. Avoiding common mistakes such as overexertion, inconsistent breath control, neglecting warm-up and cool-down routines, and lacking confidence and expression is crucial for vocal health and progress. By maintaining healthy vocal habits, seeking professional guidance, and exploring head voice in different music genres, singers can unlock the full potential of their head voice and deliver captivating performances.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to develop head voice?
A: The time it takes to develop head voice varies from person to person. It depends on factors such as natural ability, previous vocal training, and consistent practice. With regular practice and proper technique, singers can start experiencing improvements in their head voice within a few months.

Q: Can anyone develop head voice?
A: Yes, anyone can develop head voice with proper training and practice. While some individuals may have a natural inclination towards head voice, it is a skill that can be developed by singers of any vocal range or background.

Q: Can head voice be used in contemporary music styles?
A: Absolutely! Head voice is commonly used in contemporary music styles such as pop, R&B, and rock. It adds a unique color and texture to the performance, allowing singers to reach high notes and deliver emotionally impactful moments.

Q: Will practicing head voice strain my vocal cords?
A: When practiced correctly and with proper technique, head voice exercises should not strain the vocal cords. It’s important to listen to your body, avoid excessive force, and work with a vocal coach to ensure you are using healthy and sustainable techniques.

Q: Can head voice be used for powerful, belting notes?
A: Head voice is not typically used for powerful, belting notes. However, with proper training and technique, singers can develop a mixed voice that combines elements of head and chest voice, allowing for a powerful and resonant sound in higher ranges.