The Vocalist

What is a vocalist?:

A vocalist is someone who performs a piece of music through singing. Also called musician, the vocalist or singer may be accompanied by instrumentalists and/or back-up singers and they may perform a cappella.

What does a vocalist do?:

A vocalist is someone who not only possess a beautiful voice, but also loves to perform and considers singing a serious career. Professional singers are those who've undergone extensive vocal training under a teacher or vocal coach.

Vocalists may either be the:

Lead vocalist - Main singer, sings the melody

Backing vocalist - Backup vocals that accompanies the lead vocalist, sings the harmony

Session singers - Vocaists who are hired for a certain project or performance within a specific period of time

Undersudy - Vocalist who fills in when the assigned singer is unable to perform

Vocal Range:

Vocalists perform pieces based on their vocal ability or vocal range. They are classified as soprano, mezzo soprano, tenor, alto and bass.

What are the qualities of a good vocalist?:

Has a beautiful voice

Loves to perform

Pronounces words with proper articulation and diction

Sings in perfect timing with the music

Takes or has taken voice lessons under a vocal coach or teacher

Knows all the songs by heart prior to a performance

Is on time during performances

Attends practice sessions

Sings with emotion

Works well with others

Has stage presence

Able to sight read

Performs with confidence

What other pointers should a vocalist keep in mind?:

Don't forget your warm-ups

Even if you're already a good singer, there's always room for improvement, so continue practicing

It's not enough that your vocal cords are fit, your body must also be healthy and fit

Observe proper posture when singing

Avoid drinking or eating anything cold, sweet and other items that can irritate your voice prior to a performance. Drink water instead and stick to a light meal before a performance.

Don't smoke

Rest up before a performance

Why become a vocalist?:

There is a very high demand for vocalists, they appear on stage in musicals or plays, you see them in concerts, bars and lounges, they perform on tv, films, radio shows and they release singles and song albums. If you have a beautiful voice, love to sing and perform, becoming a vocalist may be your dream career.

Famous Vocalists:

Profiles of some of the most famous singers and vocalists in history.

Related Web site:

More tips on singing from Vocalist.Org