What is Vocal Music?

 Where words fail, music speaks. – Hans Christian Andersen

Vocal music is a genre of music that uses the human tone as the central part of the piece. It is intended to be performed by one or more singers, with or without instrumental accompaniment (referred to as a Cappella in musical terms). Vocal music not only emphasises the human voice but also features sung words commonly known as lyrics. Therefore, it is the opposite of instrumental music.

Regarding musical textures, there are different types and vocal music can be monophonic or polyphonic. Texture means the layers of music that helps a musical piece sound organised. Some of the most common textures are:

Monophonic

This texture is one of the basic musical textures, and it has only one layer, a single melody line. In this texture, it doesn’t matter how many types of voices or instruments are there or present as they all play at the same time. In simple terms, it could be a person whistling a tune or a song.

Homophonic

This texture uses multiple voices and several notes at once but all in the same rhythm. There is one main melody line in homophonic music, and the harmony is under it. This texture is trendy and is commonly used in western music.

Polyphonic

This musical texture comprises two or more tones or melody layers simultaneously. It could be a male voice, a female voice, a trumped melody, etc., occur at the same time.

Heterophonic

Heterophonic textures consist of multiple voices singing at once; each singer adds their subtle variations. The texture is familiar in Indian and African music.

Different Types of Vocal Music

“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything”, once said by the greatest philosopher in Classical Greece, Plato. 

Music has always been an essential part of human expression and is loved by millions of people. It is one of the greatest forms of art and has been in existence for thousands of years. And, ever since human tones/voices are used to create this performing art.

Vocal music is probably the oldest form of music and is found deeply rooted in different cultures around the globe. It can be classified as such with or without lyrics. It can further be divided into several specific types such as a Cappella, Songs, Sacred etc.

Rhythm and Blues (R&B)

It is a popular western music style that emerged from African American communities in the 1940s. Originally, a singer played blues with either banjo (strummed stringed instruments) or guitar. However, this style has evolved with time, alongside the instruments that are used. Other than guitar family, popular instruments used in Blues are brass instruments, saxophone, drum kit etc. The 12 bar blues chord structure are the standard features of this music.

Eric Clapton, Albert Collins, Blind Blake, Willie Dickson and Etta James are amongst the renowned blues singers. The first Blues songs were Delta blues. Some of the sub-genres of this type of music are:

• Classic Blues
• African Blues
• Blues Rock
• Country Blues
• Chicago Blues
• Delta Blues
• Electric Blues
• Blues Gospel
• New Orlean Blues
• Soul Blues and more.

With a little bit of practice, some patience, a lot of passion and the right teacher, you too can start playing famous R&B songs like a pro. A good place to start would be to learn how to play the saxophone.

Jazz

Jazz is a popular western music style that originated in the late 19th century and early 20th century in the African-American communities. Ever since then, millions of people have loved this genre because of its unique elements that help it stand out from the rest of the styles. It is not only melodious but also has harmony and rhythm. It has all the components that can soothe your ears and stimulate the mind.

Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, Sarah Vaughan, Nina Simone, Louis Armstrong are amongst the top Jazz singers of all time. Jazz is one amongst those singing styles that takes skills and creativity to nail it.

List of standard instruments used in Jazz music includes guitar, trumpet, saxophone, drum, bass instruments such as trombone and piano. If you want to be a Jazz pianist, then the best thing you could do for yourself is to join a piano class to learn how to play the softest music to the most thunderous soundtrack.

Jazz, as a singing style, has many sub-genres. Some of them include:

• Acid Jazz
• Big Band
• Latin Jazz
• Contemporary Jazz
• Crossover Jazz
• Gypsy Jazz
• Ragtime
• Mainstream Jazz
• Ethio-jazz
• Bebop

Rock

Also known as Rock ’n’ Roll, Rock music is often known for its intense emotion (more in-depth emotional content). It surfaces around the 1950s and is based largely on the use of 4 instruments; the drums, rhythm guitars, lead guitars and a bass guitar. It later split into various sub-genres but one of the most popular ones is ‘Classic Rock’ which refers to the music produced in the 1960s.

The Beatles, Queen, Radiohead, Nirvana, Guns N’ Roses, Metallica, Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd, are on the list of the most popular Rock bands of all time. Since their time, this form of music has gained immense popularity across Europe and English-speaking countries and has developed a wide range of styles. Some of the top sub-genres are:

• Hard Rock
• Grunge
• Punk Rock
• Alternative Rock
• Heavy Metal Rock
• Indie Rock
• Progressive Rock
• Experimental Rock
• Gothic Rock
• New Wave

These days, most budding rock musicians like to learn how to play the guitar so that they can get to playing their favorite songs.

Bhajan

One of the popular singing styles which are deeply rooted in Indian tradition is the Bhajan. This music alludes to a tune with a religious theme and has a wide range of styles such as classical, devotional songs, musical chant, high and low-level poetic music etc.

Bhajan is considered truly divine as it allows people to convey their religious beliefs through singing. Indian musician and singer, Anup Jalota is known for his divine Bhajans.

Some of the most common Indian instruments used in Bhajan include:

• Sitar
• Dholki
• Ektar
• Harmonium
• Tanpura
• Kartal
• Manjira etc.

One of the most common instruments in Indian music is the Harmonium. Many schools also teach their music students how to play this instrument. To learn how to play the harmonium, all you need is an ear for music and a good teacher.

Indian Film Music

It is a style of music that originated with the first sound Hindi film called Alam Ara in 1931. Ever since it has come a long way and is now widespread and mainly found in Indian cinema. Lata Mangeshkar, Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghoshal, Udit Narayan and Arijit Singh are on the list of famous Indian film singers.

Indian film music is strikingly different from classical and folk music. It is more of western pop in many ways. Some of the typical instruments used include

• Keyboard
• Piano
• Santur
• Tabla
• Electric Guitar
• Saxophones
• Electronic Drums
• Synthesizer
• Trumpets
• Harmonium

Ghazal

First developed in South Asia in the 12th century, Ghazal is a popular Indian musical style sung with the melodic rhythms alongside instruments such as sitar, mandolins, harmonium tabla, accordion, ukulele etc. Ghazal is more of a poetic form that generally comprises five to twelve rhyming couplets and a refrain. Jagjit Singh, Pankaj Udhas, Talat Mahmood, Kishore Kumar are amongst the famous Indian Ghazal singers.

Vocal Music Lessons for Beginners

If you’re a beginner who’s passionate about learning vocal music, then there are countless trainers who offer lessons on classical, hip-hop and pop music. You can also find institutes that provide quality lessons for beginners. Get trained by the best trainer to bring out the musician in you and turn your passion into a career.

Here are a few reasons why proper music lessons are essential, especially when it comes to starting a career as a singer.

• To learn different musical styles, scales and theories
• They help you discover your vocal range and ability
• To learn to strengthen yourself to be able to perform
• To improve your voice, pitch, tone and technique
• Teachers can also put you in touch with other key members of the music society

Top Vocal Music Academies in India

India, as a country, is considered amongst the world musical countries. The country has multiple varieties including Classical, Indian rock, Indian pop, Punjabi and Folk music. India, as a diversified country, is home to some of the best academies. Start your search with the following suggestions and find the right one for yourself.

Reality shows have gained popularity in recent years, and singing shows around the globe help discover new talent. A list of popular singing TV shows include:

• Indian Idol
• The Voice
• Sa Re Ga Ma Pa
• Rising Star

5 Famous Indian Singers who made it Big through Reality Shows

Arijit Singh

One of the most versatile and renowned Indian playback singers, Arijit Singh started his singing journey at a young age. He first appeared on Fame Gurukul in 2005 and soon he was discovered by Indian filmmakers.

Some of his best songs that received widespread recognition include:

• Enna Sona
• Bulleya
• Tum Hi Ho
• Hamari Adhuri Kahani

Shreya Ghoshal

She is an Indian playback singer and a national award winner. She is one amongst those remarkable singers who took home four National Film Awards, two Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, four Kerala State Film Awards and many Filmfare Awards. Started her musical journey at the age of four, this talented singer comes from a Bengali Hindu family. She additionally won the reality show Sa Re Ga Ma in 2000.

Some of her record-breaking Hindi songs include:

• Agar Tum Mil Jao from Zehar
• Main Agar Kahoon from Om Shanti Om
• Teri Meri Prem Kahani

Monali Thakur

A famous Indian singer and actress, she was one of the participants on Indian Idol Season 5. She comes from a Begali family and her father and sister are also professional singers. Since the show, she has won multiple awards like National Film Award and a Filmfare Award.

Her most popular songs include:

• Moh Moh Ke Dhaage
• Zara Zara Touch Me
• Dhol Baaje
• Tere Jaisa Tu Hai
• Khudaya Khair

Neeti Mohan

This famous Indian singer was the winner of the Channel V’s reality show Popstars in 2003. Ever since this talented singer has recorded several hit songs which includes Ishq Wala Love from Student of the Year.

Some of the best songs recorded by her include:

• Naino Wale Ne
• Tujhse Kahan Juda Hoon Main
• Piya More
• Tune Mari Entriyaan

Darshan Raval

An Indian singer, songwriter and composer appeared on the Indian reality show India’s Raw Star. Although he was the 1st runner-up, recognition that is gained as a contestant on the Indian reality show has helped him in his singing journey. Today, this Bollywood playback singer has recorded several hit songs that are loved by millions of people.

Some of the popular songs are:

• Kamariya
• Odhani
• Chogada Tara
• Tera Zikr

5 Successful Singers around the world who made it big through Reality Shows

Kelly Brianne Clarkson

She is a super successful American singer, songwriter, actress and TV personality. Also, the winner of the first season of American Idol in 2002. Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You), Behind These Hazel Eyes, Because of You are on the list of her hit songs that won millions of hearts.

Adam Mitchel Lambert

He is an American singer, stage actor and songwriter. Adam Lambert was the runner-up on the eighth season of American Idol, 2009. Better Than I Know Myself, Whataya Want from Me, and If I Had You are amongst his best collection.

Carrie Marie Underwood 

This American singer, songwriter, and actress was the winner of American Idol in 2005. Her best songs collection include Something in the Water, Before He Cheats, Wasted and more.

Jennifer Hudson

She is an American singer and actress who won the 3rd season of American Idol in 2004. She is well-known for her famous songs Love You I Do, And I Am Telling You, Spotlight, I Am Changing and more.

Britney Spears

She is a popular American pop singer, songwriter, and actress who first appeared on Star Search in 1992. Her best songs include Baby One More Time, Breathe on Me, Toxic and more.

List of Musical Instruments

The world today is blessed with numerous instruments that produce different beautiful and pleasant sounds that please human ears. In simple terms, musical instruments are devices that produce musical sounds. When it comes to instrumental families, there are five primary types.

Percussion instrument

It is considered as one of the oldest musical families and the largest in the orchestra. List of complete percussion instruments includes Piano, Timpani, Xylophone, Tambourine, Cymbals, Triangle, Bass Drum, Maracas, Gongs, Celesta, Snare Drum and Chimes.

Woodwind instrument

Woodwind family instruments contain some sort of resonator and produce sound from the flow of air across a thin piece of wood called a reed. This musical instrument can be classified into several types of viz. Flute, Saxophone, Cor Anglais or English horn, Oboe, Piccolo and Clarinet.

Brass family

Also known as labrosones, Brass instruments produce sound by using the breath of players. They are generally played by blowing through a mouthpiece. List of brass instruments are Trumpet, Bugle, Tuba, Hunting horn, French horn, Mellophone, Cornet, Euphonium, Piccolo Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Trombone and Cimbasso.

String family

One of the most commonly used instrument families, string instruments produce sound from vibrating strings. This family has numerous instruments, amongst all some of the most common include Guitar, Violin, Banjo, Ukulele, Electric bass and Cello.

Keyboard family

Keyboard instruments contain a row of levers or keys. It can be classified into four categories – Chordophones, Aerophones, Idiophones and Electrophones.