A cappella music has a unique appeal that not only captures the essence of the hits we love but also invites singers to explore and expand the possibilities of their voices. What’s fascinating about this style is the ability to turn a simple human voice into something much bigger: a musical instrument that can mimic electric guitars, drums, pianos, and even strings. This challenge, which may seem impossible, is what makes a cappella so special.
How do you make the voice sound like an instrument? The secret lies in the creative use of vocal techniques. A cappella singers learn to imitate the sounds of instruments not only with their tone but also by manipulating texture, rhythm, and text. For example, to mimic a string instrument, singers may use “vibrato”, which is when the voice quickly oscillates between two notes. This has been used in instruments to add expression, and is achieved when there is freedom in one’s breath capacity.
To replicate the beat that a song has, a cappella singers use a technique called “beatboxing,” where the articulators – the mouth, the lips, the tongue – along with breath, generate percussion sounds like bass drums or snare drums. The trick is in mastering breath control and quickly switching between sounds and textures. Some singers are even able to sing and beatbox at the same time! In a typical a cappella group, however, the beatboxer takes on the role of holding the rhythm down without singing, while the other singers harmonize.
Words also play a huge role in how the sounds come across. Singers can emulate different sounds by being selective about which vowel and consonant combinations they use. For example, using the word “doom” can be much more effective in sounding like a bass than using a word like “dim”. It may not seem like a huge difference, but it definitely changes how it comes across in the overall sound.
A cappella is essentially the art of having multiple voices that work together to simulate a full ensemble of instruments. They can act as a full orchestra, a rock band, a group of synthesizers, and more! For example, tenors can emulate the brass section of a song, while basses can take on the electric bass role. Sopranos can imitate the violins and violas, and altos can act as the guitars. The key is how the voices interweave, combine, and adjust to the musical arrangements, creating a rich sound palette that brings songs to life in a completely new way.
A cappella challenges performers to think differently about music. It’s not just about singing a melody; it’s about understanding how the voice can become the vehicle for a full musical experience, where every singer is also an instrument, and every performance is a collaborative work of art.
Join CMC’s first a cappella group, where adults of all vocal ranges can come together to sing fun and challenging arrangements. In this group, you’ll learn to blend your voices, emulate different instruments, and strengthen your musical ear, all while improving your vocal skills. The group explores a variety of musical styles, including pop, folk, and more. Tenors, basses, and vocal percussionists are especially encouraged. Prerequisites include the ability to sing in tune and read music, with entrance by audition. The group will be led by instructor Nena Aldaz.