Differences Between Classical and Musical Theater Singing

Introduction

• Question from Paul in Rome about the difference between singing classical or opera and musical theater.
• Both require a free, supported voice but have different aesthetic demands.
• Classical singing often perceived as foundational, but this is a misconception.

Classical Singing

• Requires more sound and resonance without artificial amplification.
• Focuses on a legato line, flow phonation, release, and vibrato.
• Vocal tract shaped to mimic a consistent instrument, like a clarinet or violin.
• Emphasizes emotional connection and the soul of the singer.

Musical Theater and Pop Singing

• Prioritizes textual importance and often mimics speech patterns.
• More variation in use of straight tone and vibrato.
• Different breath management strategies; often a divergent tract shape.
• Encourages a more vernacular sound, differing from the uniformity of classical singing.

Breath Management

• Classical Singing: Uses a system called "Apojo," promoting an easy, slow, energized air stream.
• Musical Theater & Pop: More options for breath management, including "speechy" coordinations.

Phonatory Patterns

• Classical: Flow phonation, where air brings vocal folds together.
• Musical Theater & Pop: Variation in phonation, including more muscular involvement in belting.

Vocal Tract Shaping

• Classical Singing: Typically a convergent tract shape (larger to smaller).
• Musical Theater & Pop: More variability, often divergent (smaller to larger).
  • Larynx position, soft palate height, and tongue shape can vary greatly.
  • Emphasis on sounding more "vernacular" or "pedestrian."

Stylistic Considerations

• Musical styles as dialects, each with unique cultural and stylistic origins.
• The blending of genres is common and enriches the musical landscape.
• Understanding why a style sounds a certain way can improve stylistic versatility.

Conclusion

• Different singing styles have unique technical demands and cultural backgrounds.
• Consider the identity and origins of a style to better connect and perform it.
• There are resources available for those interested in exploring and enhancing their singing techniques across styles.