Description:
In this part, we’ll focus on using brighter, more forward sounds to help bring your vocal folds together more efficiently. This technique can help create a clearer, more resonant tone that will strengthen your head voice.
“Bright” sounds often feel more “bratty” or sharp in tone, but they help you find a more resonant placement in your head voice. You’ll learn to use these sounds to engage your upper register while avoiding strain.
Exercise 1: Bright “Bratty” Sound
To access the “bratty” sound, imagine singing with a bit more brightness and forward placement. This will help you create a more resonant and consistent tone in your head voice.
To access the “bratty” sound, imagine singing with a bit more brightness and forward placement. This will help you create a more resonant and consistent tone in your head voice.
- Start by singing “buh-buh-buh” on a five-note scale: C – D – E – F – G
- Focus on singing with a bright, sharp tone. Imagine projecting the sound forward to the mask of your face (the area around your nose and forehead).
Don’t worry about making the sound harsh. The goal is to get more resonance without straining. Practice this sound at different pitches to strengthen your head voice.
Exercise 2: Bright Sound with “Amazing Grace”
Now, apply the bright sound to a line from Amazing Grace.
Now, apply the bright sound to a line from Amazing Grace.
Line:
“Amazing grace, how sweet the sound”
“Amazing grace, how sweet the sound”
- Sing the line using the bright “bratty” sound.
- Focus on making the sound resonant and forward without squeezing or straining your throat.
Repeat this line several times, aiming for a clear and bright tone in the head voice.
Lessons:
Instructor: Camille van Niekerk
Camille van Niekerk is a singer, writer and vocal instructor in Southern California. Camille began studying voice and performing in musicals at age seven. In 2010, Camille began working towards her BA in Music Education at Azusa Pacific University. She then earned her teaching credential from San Diego State University and taught classroom choral and instrumental music. Shortly after moving to LA county, Camille began her private vocal studio, providing vocal coaching, ear training, and recording for students of all ages. She is constantly refining her skills and methods for greater versatility and effectiveness. When she is not teaching, Camille enjoys singing with the L.A. Choral Lab and Ensoma Creative. She lives in San Diego with her husband and loves going to the beach, practicing yoga, reading, and cooking.