Seth Riggs

Overview of Seth Riggs

Background and Expertise

Seth Riggs, born in 1930, is an American vocal coach renowned for his revolutionary approach to teaching singing. Riggs developed his own vocal technique, Speech Level Singing (SLS), which has gained popularity worldwide. His early career involved working with renowned vocal coaches and studying various singing techniques, eventually leading him to formulate his own method. Riggs has amassed over sixty years of experience in coaching and has worked with a multitude of high-profile clients in the music and entertainment industry.

Notable Students and Achievements

Riggs has trained numerous prominent artists, including the late Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Barbra Streisand, and Madonna, to name a few. His impact on the success of these artists is widely recognized and has solidified his reputation as one of the most influential vocal coaches in the world. Riggs has been credited with helping his students develop and maintain healthy vocal techniques, extending their careers and preserving their voices.

Vocal Technique Innovations

Riggs’ innovative SLS technique focuses on ensuring that the voice remains in a comfortable, speech-like position regardless of the pitch or range. This approach emphasizes a balanced mix of chest, middle, and head voice, promoting a seamless transition between vocal registers. By employing SLS, singers can achieve greater vocal agility, improved tone quality, and increased vocal range without straining or damaging their voice.

Influence on Contemporary Vocal Pedagogy

Seth Riggs’ impact on contemporary vocal pedagogy is substantial, as his technique has become a cornerstone of modern vocal training. Many vocal coaches and singing teachers have integrated elements of SLS into their own methods, acknowledging the benefits of its emphasis on vocal health, flexibility, and range expansion. Riggs’ contributions have significantly influenced the way singing is taught and practiced today, ensuring that his legacy continues to shape the future of vocal education.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Seth Riggs’ pioneering work in vocal coaching and the development of the Speech Level Singing technique has left an indelible mark on the music industry and vocal pedagogy. His influence extends far beyond his impressive list of celebrity clients, as his innovative approach to vocal training has become a fundamental aspect of contemporary singing education. Riggs’ emphasis on vocal health, range development, and seamless register transitions has empowered countless singers to achieve their full potential while safeguarding their voices. As a result, Seth Riggs’ legacy as a vocal coach and innovator remains unparalleled, continuing to inspire and shape the next generation of aspiring vocalists.

FAQs

1. What is Speech Level Singing (SLS)?

Speech Level Singing (SLS) is a vocal technique developed by Seth Riggs, focusing on maintaining a relaxed, speech-like position for the voice across all vocal ranges. It emphasizes balanced vocal production, aiding in the development of a seamless transition between chest, middle, and head voice registers.

2. Who are some of Seth Riggs’ notable students?

Seth Riggs has coached numerous renowned artists, including Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Barbra Streisand, and Madonna, among others.

3. What makes Seth Riggs’ vocal technique innovative?

Riggs’ technique emphasizes vocal health, agility, and range expansion without strain or damage. It promotes a balanced mix of vocal registers and has significantly influenced contemporary vocal pedagogy.

4. How has Seth Riggs influenced modern vocal education?

Seth Riggs’ technique has become a fundamental aspect of contemporary vocal training, with many vocal coaches integrating elements of SLS into their own methods due to its emphasis on vocal health, flexibility, and range expansion.

5. Can the Speech Level Singing technique benefit aspiring singers?

Yes, the Speech Level Singing technique can benefit aspiring singers by helping them develop healthy vocal techniques, expand their vocal range, and achieve greater vocal agility without strain, thus safeguarding their voices for long-term success in their singing careers.