Colet: My voice range and quality seems unstable…
Hi, I’m 16.
I’ve got a ‘low voice’ with a range from a C two octaves below middle C to a D just above middle C. I find that my voice keeps shifting up and down a few tones, regardless of the time of day. For example I can sometimes hit a B-flat (two octaves below middle C and not reach middle C). What should I do to keep my notes and improve the quality of singing.
Answer: Colet, thanks for the question. First I must say is that you’re perfectly normal!
You’re 16, and voices, male voices especially, tend to be unstable both in range and quality. While your range suggests that you are a bass now, the next 5 years is going to include a marked development in which range and tone color (quality) will mature and possibly even change (range).
What you need to concentrate on now until you start studying voice seriously (possibly in your 18th year), is to sing clearly and easily in the part of your range in which you are most comfortable, rather than concentrating on the low and high “barriers.” Besides singing bass in choirs, participate in some dramatic events in which you are called upon to speak clearly (without yelling) and cultivate your expressive abilities. It’s natural to be concerned about an unstable range and quality. But, take it from me … don’t be. This phase of vocal maturity (or immaturity) will pass and become more secure. Enjoy being one of the few in your school who can reach those low notes in the bass section of your choir!
Best wishes.
Tags: adolescent vocal insecurity, quality, Range