Optimum Vocal Range, Tempos, and Neutral Syllables
Vocal Range
The young child’s musical mind grasps tonal content most easily and learns to sing most accurately in the vocal range from middle C to the B above, with the tessitura between D and A. The limited vocal range optimizes tonal development, which can then be propelled to the higher range.
Tempo
A limited range of tempos best serve the development of rhythm skills. Secure rhythm skills then drive rhythmic competence at any tempo.
Neutral Syllables
Words appeal to the thinking mind. 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—in young children and in parent models. “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.”
