Did you know that alto is the Italian word for “high?” Alto refers to the vocal part that is higher than the tenor voice. An alto singers, or singers that are often referred to as a mezzo-sopranos, have a voice type that is usually the second highest voice type. There are eight voice types. Here is where the alto voice fits in, going from highest to lowest.
- Soprano
- Mezzo-soprano
- Alto
- Contralto
- Countertenor
- Tenor
- Baritone
- Bass
As singers and creators, we can gain inspiration from all of the amazing artists out there in the world, both past and present. There are infinite possibilities for what may inspire each of us! There is something special about the alto voice, and these alto singers are no exception. This article will provide a few artists and performances to inspire you and your performances and artistic endeavors.
If Alto’s Sing a Lot in the Middle Voice… What Exactly Is the Middle Voice?
The middle voice is generally defined as the bridge between chest voice and head voice. In the case of these alto singers mentioned below, it is that bridge between the chest and head voice that gives their voices the most power. The addition of rich low notes adds to this even more!
Many people find that when singing in a pop or musical theatre style, they are creating more of a “chest dominant sound”. And when they are singing opera or classical music, they have a more “head dominant sound.” I decided to include multiple genres in this article in hopes that you will find inspiration to use your voice in whatever style speaks to you.
When Middle to Low Feels Most Comfortable
Many alto/mezzo-soprano singers find that the middle to low range is the most comfortable for them. The range of a voice does not always identify voice type, however; tessitura, the Italian word for “the range in which a vocal part falls,” is a better indicator of what a voice part may be. For example, many voices in the soprano and mezzo-soprano/alto range categories actually have a similar range in terms of what their note capabilities are.
However, sopranos generally will like singing in a higher tessitura, whereas altos and mezzo-sopranos would usually like to sing in a lower tessitura. This means that lower voices often sing in the mid to low vocal range most of the time, whereas higher voices often sing in the mid to high vocal range most of the time. To better understand where your tessitura and vocal range is, it is always a good idea to consult a voice teacher!
A small note: as you may know, range and vocal classification are not specific to any groupings of musical styles. We never need to box ourselves into one category either; explore the range and tessitura of your instrument and have fun learning the intimacies of your unique voice!
Here is a basic chart of some of the common vocal classifications, for reference: And now, here are the singers, with a specific recommendation to consider listening to.
Classical:
- Marian Anderson (February 27, 1897 – April 8, 1993)
- Recommended listening: The Star Spangled Banner (at the Lincoln Memorial.)
Marian Anderson was a legendary singer who was also a historical figure. We hear Marian Anderson’s beautiful middle voice and beautifully blended lower register in anything that she sings. Additionally, she used musical dynamics in a very powerful way to emphasize the emotion of her singing.
- Dame Janet Baker (August 21, 1933- current)
- Recommended listening: “When I am Laid in Earth” from Dido & Aeneas.
One of opera’s most beloved and famous scenes, “When I am Laid in Earth” by Henry Purcell is a haven for both its swelling vocal lines and dramatic intention. Dame Janet Baker was one of the greatest singers alive, and we can all learn so much from her. In this particular scene, she shows the beauty of tone, drama, and line, all while maintaining a clear understanding of the text.
Musical Theatre:
Liza Minnelli was known for her work in the musical Cabaret, and it is definitely easy to tell why! “Maybe this Time” is a challenging piece because it does not sit in one specific tessitura for long; Liza maneuvers this with ease and has a beautiful and powerful belt at the end of the piece.
Jazz:
- Peggy Lee (May 26, 1920 – January 21, 2002)
- Recommended listening: “Fever.”
Peggy Lee was a force in her six-decade career. She was known for her work in The Lady and The Tramp, but here in “Fever”, we hear the richness of her tone. What’s special about Peggy Lee is that she maintains the “sweet spot” mix of both deep richness and bright clarity in her singing, which is incredibly difficult to do for many singers.
- Ella Fitzgerald (April 25, 1917 – June 15, 1996)
- Recommended listening: “Somewhere over the Rainbow.”
Known as the “Queen of Jazz,” Ella Fitzgerald was an essential singer for jazz and female singers of all generations. Ella Fitzgerald had a once-in-a-lifetime voice. Ella had a versatile instrument and a very wide range; a great example of the use of tessitura.
Pop/Rock/Contemporary:
- Annie Lennox (December 25th, 1954-current)
- Recommended listening: “Sweet Dreams.”
Annie Lennox is an incredible artist and human. She is just as giving vocally as she is as a member of the artistic community, regularly giving to important charities. In this performance, what is most important to note is the freedom that she has in her body, which is relating to the timbre and relaxed energy she has in her voice.
- Adele (May 5th, 1988-current)
- Recommended listening: “When We Were Young – Live at the Church Studios.”
Adele is possibly the most famous of the powerhouse alto singers. What makes Adele special in my opinion is not just simply her vocal characteristics, but also her emotion is so palpable. Her voice is also timeless; in this particular performance, she captivates us in the first phrase she sings.
Country:
- Patsy Cline (September 8th, 1932 – March 5th, 1963)
- Recommended listening: “Walkin’ After Midnight.”
Patsy Cline has a voice that is easily identifiable and unique to her. Her voice was powerful, and she exuded confidence which set a precedent for women in country music and beyond. Vocally, Patsy Cline’s singing maintains a sort of steel-like color; this is the best way to make the voice heard in a big space.
Feeling Inspired By These Powerhouse Alto Singers?
No matter what you’ve been working on, these phenomenal artists can uplift our spirits and help persuade our musical voice. This is the magical thing about the human universal of music… we are a part of a community of Keep singing!
Marissa Moultrie