Know Your Vocal Range

Vocal Ranges & Classifications

Everyone has a different vocal ability which in (mainly) classical, operatic and theatrical circles is grouped into a classification which are also known as 'vocal fach'. Although some of these terms may be used for other singers of popular, jazz and other styles of music, the terminology, whilst helpful in identifying the types of songs that may be performed, can be misleading. A singer with a wide vocal range may cover more than one 'fach' and as the voice develops with age, training and experience, the classification into which the singer has initially been grouped may no longer apply.

Our own particular feeling about the subject is that whilst it can be a useful tool for identifying the vocal range of an individual, it should not be allowed to limit the singer who may spend far too much time singing one style or category of song due to being pigeonholed into a classification. Any song that is comfortable for the vocalists range should be attempted, regardless of style or genre, as this is the only way to truly discover your voices capabilities and expand your knowledge.

As a general rule:

Soprano
High female voice, G3 (below middle C4) to F6 above high C6 although anywhere above high C can be included.

Coloratura
A singer, usually soprano, who sings ornamental passages in music - C4 to F6 or G6 above high C6

Lyric Soprano
Warmer middle sound - Bb3 below middle C4 to high C6 or D6

Spinto Soprano
Usually a thicker sound with more edge and volume but with the same range as a the Lyric Soprano

Dramatic Soprano
The loudest and lowest with cutting power - low Bb3 or A3, to a pushed high C6

Mezzo-Soprano
Middle female voice with dark quality, Low A3 or G3 (below middle C4) to at least high C although it is not uncommon for high A6 or Bb6 to Eb6 above high C6.

Alto or Contralto
Low Female Voice, low C3 (below middle C4) to high C6 or up to high A6.

Tenor
High Male Voice, C (an octave below middle C) up to high C or D (or above).

Countertenor
Highest male voice, also called alto, often falsetto - (see Russell Oberlin Distincts True Countertenor from Falsettist

Heldentenor
Powerful dramatic tenor voice

Baritone
Middle Male Voice, low G/F an octave below middle C to B, F or G above middle C (just below the Tenor high C).

Bass
Baritone - More like a bass than a baritone, lacks the low bass notes

Bass
Low Male Voice, low E (or lower) an octave below middle C to E, F G above middle C.

Basso Cantante
High bass voice suitable for solo singing

Basso Profundo
Deep bass voice encompassing about two octaves above C below the bass staff

These are just a few classifications which are split into sub classifications covering all types of vocal range and tone. Please note that the tone, resonance and ornamentation of the voice should be taken into consideration before assuming it falls into one or other 'fach'..... The amount of notes or range/register alone does NOT equal 'fach type'. An individuals vocal range may extend in each direction of their comfortable 'fach' or lack the full range of indicated notes but would still fall into the category due to the tone and quality of the voice. Also note that 'Middle C' denotes the C note closest to the center of the keyboard or the piano. In the UK this is often referred to as C4 but this is not standard for all countries who may have a different numbering.
Click Here to Know Your Voice Type 

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