How Do You Learn to Sing Opera

Singing the opera is a skill that anyone can try to learn, regardless of age or status. You just need to have superior determination, excellence in singing skill, and utter professionalism. There must be a deep-seated passion for opera in your blood in order to pull it off.And, you must be willing to give a huge part of your life to opera. You need to understand that singing the opera is a lifestyle that is not cut out for anyone, though anyone can learn how.

Why is opera music different from other singing genres?

Opera music is a classic singing that involves the ultimate level of resonance in your voice. It requires you to dig deeper and determine the innermost source of your voice. And that classical technique greatly helps you grow as a singer and increases your voice projection. In opera music, you as a singer is intensely trained to build your personal inner microphone. That alone is quite different from other music genres like jazz, musical theatre, or pop since they rely on electronic microphones to be heard.

Also, in opera music, you excellently combine singing and acting in one performance. You give out your soul in your music, and show your deep emotions. Opera music opt to touch the hearts of the audience. And it requires you to create characterization that is extremely moving for everyone in the opera house.

Another difference between opera and other music is the class of people it serves. Ever since opera music started, it has been branded as the music for the upper class. This perception has not changed much after decades, but the truth is there are opera performances that are affordable. And with other music genres, they are brought up to be for every kind of people, regardless of class.

How to sing opera?

Now that you have a bit of background regarding opera music, it is time to find out how do you learn to sing opera.

Opera music coach

Opera music is not a skill that you can develop on your own, unlike other genres of music. You need a capable and dedicated opera music teacher to gain the knowledge and techniques for opera music. Ask for referrals from anyone you know who is in the opera world. You can also do your research and find the most suitable coach for you.

Categorize your voice

Opera singers have different kinds of voices, and you need to figure out yours.

• Soprano Voice – it is the highest voice range for females. You can test your voice by singing starting from middle C and up two octaves.
• Mezzo-soprano – mid-range voice for females. Test by playing G below middle C, and then up two octaves going through A.
• Contralto and countertenor – the latter is the highest range for a male voice, and the former is the lowest range for a female voice. Check if any of the two is your voice by singing F below middle C and then moving on to F one octave above.
• Tenor – tenor voice is for the lead male role in an opera. Find out if this is you by singing C below middle C, and then C above.
• Baritone – it is the mid-range voice for males. You will know if this voice is yours by using the second G below middle C, and then to the G above.
• Bass – this is the lowest-range for male voices. It is tested by singing E above middle C, going towards E two octaves below.

By knowing your opera voice, you can be clear of the potential role you will play in the opera. But if you do not like your voice range, then you can try to learn the voice range you want.

Daily practice

You have chosen a path that requires fierce dedication and time. Practice singing opera every day, six days a week, and long hours daily. You cannot waste any time for unhealthy social lifestyle. Instead, keep your schedule full of opera practice, and take a rest day to recuperate.

Study the popular opera singers

One of the best techniques to develop your skill for opera music is to study the popular opera singers. Watch their performances online, and see how they carry themselves and their music. Study how they express their emotions and how they perform with brilliance on stage.

Careful with your instrument

Opera singers do not play any instrument, because they are the instrument. Your body, voice, face, and everything physical about you is your opera music instrument.You must do everything to care for your body and follow a strict workout regimen and diet.

Learn new languages

Singing the opera requires you to learn new languages, since the main language for opera are Italian, German, and French.You need a solid foundation for these languages so you can understand what you are singing and feel it in your bones. Moreover, learning different languages is advantageous for you. Who know, you can visit other countries thanks to your opera singing. At least you will know how to talk to the locals.

Tips for singing opera music

Learning to sing the opera is not an easy task, but you can achieve a great end result if you truly believe in yourself. To help you out, here are a couple of tips for you to consider.

• Always warm up your voice whenever you practice or sing the opera music.
• Engage in breathing exercises every day to condition your vocal cords and lungs for the opera singing.
• Expand your diaphragm while singing, so you get a solid support for your voice throughout your performance.
• Learn how to read opera music sheet in order to smoothly learn how to sing opera.

Conclusion

Opera music is a beautiful piece of art that is full of vivid emotions and characterizations. By learning to sing this kind of music genre, you are opening yourself to a whole new level of accomplishment.