When we start to sing, we come across many different types of voices, vocal techniques, and styles. To generate those different types of voices, styles, and techniques we use different parts of our body just as the chest, and shoulders, etc, use our vocal cords in a different manner or apply different methods of singing. Some may sound drastically different from one another. There are also some that may sound quite similar. Well, they might sound “similar” but are not the “same.” Usually, the ones that sound similar are clubbed together and thus are not properly understood. In this blog, we will talk about one such misunderstood vocal technique and bust a few myths along the way about the “FALESETTO.”
Falsetto Meaning
To understand falsetto. Let’s start from the very beginning “what does the word even mean?” The word “Falsetto” was originally coined by the Italians. The literal translation of the word means “False Soprano.” It is called the “artificial voice.” To be fair falsetto can overlap with singers’ lower range as well. But singers tend to use falsetto use to sing higher notes. In simple words, we can describe falsetto as a vocal technique that enables singers to sing high notes which are beyond their vocal range and would be unattainable otherwise.
Let’s Bust A MYTH!
Initially, the term falsetto was only used for men when they sang on the higher or upper register of their voices. As it was believed that women did not possess the capability of singing in Falsetto. Well, this myth has long been busted! Women are equally capable of singing in falsetto. Since women usually have a higher vocal range the use or shift in falsetto is less recognizable than when men use it.
Workings of the Falsetto
To understand the vocal technique better let’s explore how the vocal cords work when singing in falsetto. When a singer is singing in falsetto the vocal folds become very thin as they are tightly stretched. The vocal cords are ajar. In other words, the vocal cords are slightly open and air passes through that space between the vocal cords. Also, falsetto results in vibration only around the ligamentous areas of the vocal cord.
Falsetto and the Head Voice
Let’s start by breaking the age-old conception that “falsetto” and “head voice” are the same thing. You might have plenty of times heard people using these two terms interchangeably. But let me tell you they are wrong! The two may sound similar but they are not and we will tell you why. First and foremost, “falsetto” is a vocal technique. Whereas, “head voice” is a type of voice just like the chest voice.
Why do they sound so similar?
The head voice and the chest voice sound similar because both of them are used when singing the upper vocal range. Also, for reaching the high pitches and hitting the high notes. The set of muscles that are used for head voice and falsetto are the same. Even though they both use cricothyroid (CT) muscles. The “way” they are used is different.
Different functioning of the Muscles
The coordination of the muscles is different when singing in falsetto and head voice. Let’s elaborate further on the different types of workings of the cricothyroid (CT) muscles. When a singer uses their head voice the cricothyroid (CT) muscles result in stretching the vocal folds longer and the vocal cords come together. On the other hand, when a singer sings in falsetto the cricothyroid (CT) muscles are once again used. But as previously, mentioned the vocal cords are slightly open through which the air passes. Also, the ligamentous edges of the vocal cords are primarily used.
Differences in Quality and Texture
Due to the anatomical difference between head voice and falsetto. The head voice results in producing a “stronger”, “fuller”, and “darker” sound in comparison to the falsetto. Whereas, the falsetto ends up producing a much lighter, airier, breathy, and flute-like sound than the head voice. Thus, through falsetto, the singers are able to reach and sing the high notes which can be difficult or impossible when singing through their head voice.
Is Singing in Falsetto Safe?
Before we learn to sing in falsetto let’s look into the question of whether singing in falsetto is safe or not. Learning to sing in falsetto is great. It adds to the set of skills that a singer may require. So, there is nothing bad about singing in falsetto. Though, over usage of the vocal technique and the incorrect way of applying the technique can put a strain on one’s vocal cords and negatively affect one’s voice. So as a singer one must use the vocal technique when required. Especially when one wants to bring variation to their music or singing.
How to Sing in Falsetto
Now that we have learned about the falsetto. Let us now introduce you to a few ways through which you can learn how to sing in falsetto.
Relax your body and focus on your breathing
Release all the tension from your jaw, neck, shoulders, and tongue. Stand in the correct posture. Now, focus on your breathing. Put your emphasis on the diaphragmic breathing technique. As diaphragmic breathing helps in inhaling more amount of air. Which is essential when singing in falsetto.
If you want to learn more about diaphragmic breathing. Check out our article “How to Sing” which talks about diaphragmic breathing in a more detailed manner.
Know your Chest Voice and Head Voice
Get acquainted with your chest voice; it will help you in learning about the different sensations that a singer experiences when they sing low notes versus when they sing high notes. The head voice is used for singing the upper half of the vocal range. A good hold of one’s head voice can act as a strong foundation for learning the falsetto.
Practice Scales
Practicing scales helps in developing the overall vocal range of a singer. Further, it helps in strengthening and expanding one’s vocal range as well. It helps bring flexibility to ones voice thus, can be extremely beneficial for learning falsetto.
Imitate a Siren
Try to imitate a siren. Start with imitating a siren on lower scales and gradually go to the higher scales. And see how far you can go. Stop immediately if you feel any strain on your vocal cords.
Listen and follow
Listen to the songs which include falsetto and try to follow the way the singer is singing. Once you have practiced enough, then try to sing by yourself.
Take a Break
Falsetto can be a rather challenging technique to learn. So, when learning, if you feel any strain on your voice stop that very moment. Give your vocal cords rest. Start practicing again once you feel that your vocal cords are well-rested. Do not rush into learning, be patient when practicing.
Falsetto in Songs
Whether it be “Got to Give it Up” by Marvin Gay, “Let’s Work” by “Prince, “Night Fever” by the Bee Gees, “Cry Me A River” by Justin Timberlake, “Emotional Rescue” by Rolling Stone, “My All” by Mariah Carey, “Right There” by Ariana Grande, “No Angel” by Beyoncé, “Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough” by Michael Jackson, “There’s A First Time For Everything” by Charlie Puth are a few songs sung by great artists which include the falsetto.
Conclusion
Falsetto is a beautiful vocal technique that lightens up and brightens up a song. With its breathy, soft texture. It is one of the ways in which an artist can bring more variety and colour to their music. Hopefully, this blog helps you in understanding the falsetto a bit better. Keep learning and happy singing.
