A limited vocal range serves the development of tonal skills. A broader vocal range serves the development of the voice. If tonal skills have not been developed in a limited range, the level of skill that will be propelled into the broader vocal range will be limited, whatever the quality of the voice. The range that best serves tonal development is from middle C to the B above, with the tessitura falling between D and A. The range that moves beyond the voice break with the highest note being D, a ninth above middle C, serves the developing voice. The vocal range that goes up to the higher G serves the more developed voice. Developing tonal skills in the optimum range is essential to generating in-tune performance in any vocal range with any age.
Tempo
A limited range of tempos serve the development of rhythm skills. Secure rhythm skills then drive rhythmic competence at any tempo.
Neutral Syllables
Words appeal to the thinking mind, which is the dominant force in life. Using a neutral syllable for rhythm and tonal activities puts the musical mind in the driver’s seat and offers pure rhythm and tonal. “Bah” works well for rhythm activities and complex rhythms, with its easy percussive consonant opening to a natural “ah” vowel sound. “Too” has been chosen for tonal activities because it fosters intonation. “Tonguing” each syllable, (beginning each pitch with “T,”) helps center pitch more precisely. The use of the tongue triggers better intonation and “oo” is a pure vowel sound that is easier to sing in tune than the more open, “ah.”
