Articulation and Artistry

Vocal technique is an essential aspect of singing that allows performers to express emotions and nuances with precision and clarity. Singers use a variety of techniques to bring life to their performances, shaping how the voice resonates, sustains, and transitions between notes. Among the most significant are vibrato, legato, and staccato—each offering unique expressive capabilities and serving distinct purposes in vocal performance. In this blog, we’ll explore these techniques in depth, how they’re produced, and how singers can master them to elevate their vocal artistry.

1. Vibrato

Vibrato is a natural and slight oscillation in pitch that enhances a singer’s tone by adding richness, warmth, and a sense of emotional depth. It gives sustained notes a wavering quality, characterized by a controlled, steady modulation of pitch. To produce vibrato, singers must strike a balance between relaxation and control, particularly in the throat muscles, while maintaining steady breath support. This balance allows the vocal folds to oscillate in a way that feels effortless and organic.

Vibrato can be developed through exercises that focus on breath control, pitch stability, and the relaxation of the larynx. Beginners may find vibrato tricky at first, as it can create an unfamiliar sensation of “letting go.” or “losing control”. It’s important not to resist this feeling by tensing up, as this can inhibit the natural flow of vibrato. Instead, allow vibrato to happen, rather than trying to force or control it. The idea of ‘letting it happen, rather than making it happen’ might help.

Technically, vibrato in singing typically oscillates at around 6 to 8 cycles per second, which differentiates it from a wobble (which is slower and less controlled) and a tremolo (which is faster and lacks pitch variation). The precise speed and depth of vibrato may vary slightly depending on the singer and the musical style.

2. Legato

In contrast to the vibrato’s oscillation, legato is all about smoothness and continuity. The term “legato”; from the Italian word for “tied together,” describes a style of singing in which each note flows seamlessly into the next, creating a sense of fluidity and uninterrupted movement. Legato is often used in lyrical, emotional passages to convey grace and connection between phrases.

Achieving a good legato technique requires a high degree of breath support and control, as well as attention to vowel shaping and the coordination of vocal registers. Singers must ensure that each note is connected with the next without any noticeable breaks or interruptions in sound. The smoothness of legato can be practiced through singing scales, arpeggios, and lyrical passages, focusing on maintaining an even, consistent tone throughout.

Legato singing is essential for creating long, flowing phrases in genres like classical, opera, and ballads. It allows the voice to sound more expressive, highlighting the natural beauty of each phrase as it unfolds with ease.

3. Staccato

On the opposite end of the spectrum from legato, we find staccato—a technique that emphasizes sharp, detached, and separated notes. Each note in a staccato passage is short, distinct, and crisply articulated. This creates a light, bouncy effect that can add energy and precision to a vocal performance. Staccato is often used in fast, rhythmic passages or in moments requiring clarity and agility. To sing staccato effectively, singers must master the art of quickly releasing and re-engaging the vocal folds, producing a percussive, precise sound. While this technique may seem straightforward, it requires control and accuracy in articulation, ensuring that each note is clear and punctuated without becoming harsh. When practicing staccato, singers should avoid glottal attacks, which can strain the voice, and instead focus on gentle yet percussive articulation that feels light and effortless. Staccato passages are often employed to add contrast and texture within a song, and they can be particularly effective in musical theater, pop, and jazz. However, it’s essential to remember that staccato is a tool, and the rhythm should remain musical and connected to the overall feel of the piece, rather than overemphasizing the vocal precision.

Mastering these vocal techniques—vibrato, legato, and staccato—will open up new dimensions in your students voices and your own voice and allow you to express a wide range of emotions and styles.

Radina is a Los Angeles-based vocal coach, speech-language pathologist specializing in voice therapy, singer, songwriter, and the founder of the music academy, Vocals on Stage. With teaching expertise spanning genres such as Pop, Dance, Soul, R’n’B, and Musical Theater, she focuses on vocal health and artist development.

Having coached for over two decades in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Hawaii, and Vienna, Radina has worked with a diverse range of clients, including novices, established touring artists, bands, solo performers, choir members, and musical theater singers. She holds a Master of Science Degree from the University of Vienna and another in Speech-Language Pathology from California State University Northridge. Her linguistic proficiency extends to English, German, Bulgarian, and French.

Radina is passionate about helping clients achieve their goals and reach their full potential as singers and artists. Her commitment to growth is unwavering; she continually refines her vocal education and performing techniques to provide the latest insights.