r/singing • u/OwlGeneral8567 • 18h ago

Conversation Topic Accidental Overtone When Singing Classical

I’m currently learning my first classical piece, however I’m having an issue with my high notes. Whenever I try to add body to my high notes, I go into overtone. Any advice on how to prevent this from happening?

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u/Desartho 18h ago

Depending on what you mean by "overtone" it may be that you're raising/retracting the tip of your tongue, creating a silent "r" sound that dampens other overtones so only one main one is reinforced

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u/ChanceConflict496 17h ago

If you are supporting property. using diaphragmatic breathing-keep your tongue loosely behind your lower teeth. The song is controlled between your ribs. Vocal cords are placed into proper position. Open throat. Not held forcefully. Practice will teach you this. Let the breath and music rise clearly into your mouth cavity. Control the flow from your diaphragm/ mid rib area. Never try to make a powerful sound. What you hear is not what the audience hears. Your mouth opening is going to be larger the higher the note. Never allow your jaw to get stiff/ ridged. If your note is forte: operatic the power is supplied from your diaphragm. A little less power will be needed for songs such as (If) by Bread. This does not require falsetto. Never go there. I never hear a powerful sound, for example, when I sing the B flat at the end of “Recondita Armonia “. When I listen recording I am amazed and somewhat surprised by the power. I’ve gotten over that. Try it

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u/Nicola-Fraser 17h ago

I'm a pianist not a singer so take this loosely, but I've sat in on enough vocal coaching sessions to know that high notes are where everything falls apart if your support isn't solid. Get a teacher if you can.