Whether you have been studying voice for many years or you have just decided to get started, one of the most common questions is always “what kind of singing should I study?”
There is no real answer to this since the circumstances are different for every individual, but whether you are working with a singing teacher or you are working independently you will want to ask yourself a few questions when deciding between vocal styles.
In this article, I will outline what some of those potential questions are as it relates to classical vs. jazz singing, and hopefully give you some ideas that will help you clarify your goals as you continue your studies.
Classical vs. Jazz: more similar than different?
Classical singing styles and jazz singing styles actually have more similarities than they do differences. In fact, many famous jazz singers are former classically trained singers! Classical training is often what is taught at music schools in the United States, so most singing teachers are familiar (or very familiar) with those concepts. Looking at the chart below, we can more clearly see these similarities and differences in technique:
| Classical:
Voice Quality: A resonant, vibrant, clear tone that can project over an orchestra with no amplification. |
Classical & Jazz:
Technical similarities: Breath management & healthy singing technique are most important for both. |
Jazz:
Voice Quality: A full, sometimes breathy, speaking-like quality that can adjust to microphone amplification. |
| Breath Control:
Singers use their breath to sing long, suspended phrases and rapid lines of coloratura. Additionally, they need to use their breath for resonance and power. |
Breathing similarities:
Both require the singer to effectively control their breath. |
Breath Control:
Singers use their breath to sing long phrases, but they use a “mic technique” to develop a specific sound. |
| Range and Registration:
Very wide range: typically two to three octaves at minimum. High & low notes most important in all voice types. Smooth registration essential between head & chest voice. |
Range/Registration similarities:
Both require the singer to have a sense of mastery over their range and registration. |
Range and Registration:
A modest range required; typically one octave, but more than one octave is always a bonus. Breaks in vocal registration are typically highlighted; smoothness not required or desired. |
| Dynamics & Vibrato:
Pianissimo (very quiet) to Fortissimo (very loud) dynamic contrast is critical to singing classically. In other words, a wide range of dynamics is important. Vibrato is constant for the majority of the classical repertoire. |
Dynamics & Vibrato similarities:
Both use dynamics, but differently. Both use vibrato, but in opera, it is used almost constantly. |
Dynamics & Vibrato:
A less drastic contrast is needed, mostly due to amplification and microphones. Forte, or loud singing can be used for emphasis but is not required. Minimal vibrato, only used as a stylistic choice at the end of phrases. |
Additionally, classical singing differs from jazz with not just the singing technique, but also in the overall style. Here are those classical vs. jazz similarities and differences in a chart:
| Classical:
Pitch: Described as attacking at the top of the pitch, and singing in the middle of the pitch. |
Classical & Jazz:
Pitch similarities: Clean pitch is still fundamentally important for both styles. |
Jazz:
Pitch: Scooping from below is allowed and encouraged. Singing on the lower part of the pitch is standard practice. |
| Rhythm:
As precise as possible is best. Any change in rhythm must be stylistically correct and specific to the composer. |
Rhythm similarities:
Having a sense of specificity is important; know what you have in mind before you begin. |
Rhythm:
Singing can be “against the beat” or “after the beat.” |
| Improvisation:
Must be specific to the composer and time period/style. |
Improvisation similarities:
Most of the time, you will want to keep improvisation strict in the bar/time signature. |
Improvisation:
Can be fluid and free; there are very few limits. Scat syllables & improvisations are also dependent on current trends. |
| Other considerations:
Acting and presentation are important. Diction/text and vocal production are the most important. The voice is always the most important. |
Other considerations:
——– ——– |
Other considerations:
The overall aesthetic is important. Focus on “setting the scene.” This is often individual to you, not the performance practice or “standard” that classical music often has. |
Now that you know the main differences in technique and style, here are a few thoughts and ideas to ask yourself when thinking about which vocal style to study:
1. What are you the most passionate about?
This may seem very basic, but it is important to study the style you are most interested in and passionate about in order to motivate you to practice consistently and grow as much as possible.
If you love to listen to a specific genre in your free time, then you might have a passion for it that would be worth developing. However, on the flip-side, if you really do not enjoy listening to certain genres despite listening to many artists and composers, maybe it is not worth continuing your studies with that genre.
2. What is your personality, or “personal style?”
Your personal style or personality might help you decide which musical style to study. This is not always the case, however, this question is an interesting point of self-discovery that can help you explore more than just your musical style. If you think you may be singing more in Jazz venues than concert halls, then you might want to focus on jazz. If you love ball-gowns and classical music, you might decide to study classically.
3. Still undecided?
If you’re still undecided and wondering how to choose classical vs. jazz vocals, remember that a classical technique builds a solid foundation for all musical styles. Beginning with classical art songs and select arias will help you to begin your musical journey.
Another helpful idea is to listen extensively to live performances of both jazz and classical singing and make a list of which characteristics interest you about both. Once you have this list, use it to decide which style would be good for you to begin with. Remember, nothing is ever permanent! You can always start with one genre and make a switch; in fact, you will be a better musician for it in many ways and that will strengthen your next singing style.
Both classical music and jazz are timeless genres that are sure to enrich your musical and personal life. Best of luck on this adventure!