Vocals in pop ballads
Copyrighted materials: to view and download resources from this lesson, you’ll need to be in the UK and
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can compose and develop an idiomatic vocal melody for a pop ballad.
Key learning points
- Vocalists in pop ballads use many different techniques to add expression, including vibrato and rubato.
- Many singers use a mixture of syllabic and melismatic singing to develop melodies and add expression.
- When writing a vocal melody, we need to consider the pattern of syllables and words, as well as the phrase structure.
- This ensures that there is balance of repetition and contrast.
Keywords
Vibrato - vibrato is a technique in which the pitch fluctuates up and down slightly to add intensity and expression
Rubato - rubato is when a performer slightly changes the tempo to add expression
Melismatic / melisma - melismatic singing is when a singer sings more than one note (often many notes) during a syllable of a word; it is also called melisma
Phrase structure - the phrase structure is the pattern of phrases in a melody; it should have a balance of repetition and contrast
Common misconception
Writing a vocal melody is the same as writing an instrumental melody.
Many of the same principles apply, such as phrase structure and using notes from the chords and the key. However, a vocal melody has to fit the natural rhythms and mood of the words well - we don't have to consider this with instrumental melodies.
Teacher tip
Emphasising the concept of the 'natural' rhythm of words is important. Encourage pupils to say the lyrics as if they were speaking them and to pay attention to emphasis and which words have fast and slow rhythm. Pair pupils up so that one can speak the words and the other can listen for the rhythms.
Equipment
DAW, MIDI keyboard and vocal recording setup (built-in mic or external if necessary)
Licence
Sign in to continue
Our content remains 100% free, but to access certain copyrighted materials, you'll need to sign in. This ensures we’re both staying within the rules.
P.S. Signing in also gives you more ways to make the most of Oak like unit downloads!
