The Art of Phrasing: How to Emphasize and Connect Musical Phrases
Phrasing music is what gives it shape and gives it artistry.
As a singer, you are not just performing a series of individual notes. Rather, you are weaving together a tapestry of musical phrases that tell a story and evoke emotions in your audience. Phrasing is the way in which you shape these musical phrases, emphasizing certain notes, and connecting others to create a sense of coherence and continuity. Here are some tips to help you master the art of phrasing in your singing:
Listen to the Music
Before you even begin to sing a song, take some time to listen to it carefully. Pay attention to how the phrases are constructed and how they flow together. Try to hear the natural rise and fall of the melody and how the lyrics are structured within each phrase.
Mark Your Phrases
One helpful technique for phrasing is to physically mark the phrases in the sheet music or lyrics. You can use brackets or slashes to indicate the boundaries of each phrase, which will help you visualize and internalize the shape of the melody. This will also help you to breathe in the right places, which is essential for good phrasing.
Emphasize Important Words and Notes
In every musical phrase, there are certain words and notes that are more important than others. These are the words and notes that convey the emotional content of the song or highlight the key themes. As a singer, it's important to identify these important elements and emphasize them through tone, volume, and dynamics.
Connect Your Phrases
To emphasize and connect musical phrases, it's essential to understand the structure and emotional content of the song. Start by listening to the melody and identifying the phrases. Take note of how they begin and end, and where the climaxes are. Then, experiment with different dynamics, articulations, and tempos to highlight the most important parts of the melody.
One technique for phrasing is to use the natural flow of your breath to guide your performance. Take a deep breath before each phrase and use the exhalation to shape the melody. For longer phrases, try to find places where you can take a subtle breath to maintain the flow of the music.
Another way to connect phrases is to use rubato, a technique where you slightly push and pull the tempo to give more expressiveness to the music. Be careful not to exaggerate this technique, as it can disrupt the natural flow of the song.
It's also essential to pay attention to the lyrics and the emotional content of the song. Use your phrasing to communicate the meaning behind the words, emphasizing the most important parts of the text. For example, in a love song, you might emphasize the word "you" to express your feelings directly to your audience.
Ultimately, the art of phrasing comes down to personal interpretation and expression. Experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you and the music you're performing. With practice and attention to detail, you can create a memorable and impactful performance that truly connects with your audience.
Incorporating these phrasing techniques can transform your singing and take your performances to the next level. If you're interested in developing your phrasing skills or improving your vocal technique, I offer private, virtual voice lessons for learners of all ages and skill levels. Contact me today to schedule a free Discovery Call and take the first step towards achieving your singing goals.
