Performance practice in singing is about using techniques and methods informed by history and style to interpret vocal music. It's not just about getting the notes and rhythms right but also about understanding how the music was meant to be performed when it was first written. Today, singers use this knowledge to make the music lively and engaging.
Here's an explanation of the main elements of performance practice in singing:
Historical Context
Knowing when a piece of music was written helps singers make choices that fit the style of that time:
- Baroque (1600–1750):Focuses on adding musical decorations like trills, with minimal use of vibrato.
- Classical (1750–1820): Emphasizes clear, balanced music with a lighter vocal tone.
- Romantic (1820–1900): Features emotional and dramatic singing, with more vibrato and varied dynamics.
- 20th Century and Contemporary:Diverse styles like minimalism and atonality, often requiring special vocal techniques.
Vocal Technique
Performance practice shapes how singers use their voices:
- Breath support and control: Varies with the style; early music uses lighter support, while romantic music requires fuller support.
- Resonance and placement:Early music may use a head-dominant tone, while opera needs a supported, full sound.
- Articulation and diction:Clear pronunciation and historically accurate articulation, such as Italianate Latin in Renaissance music.
Ornamentation and Improvisation
Crucial in Baroque music and earlier periods:
- Singers are expected to add embellishments to repeated sections.
- Historical knowledge guides decisions on how to add these decorations.
Text Interpretation
Central to expressive singing:
- Text painting: Matching vocal expression to the text's meaning.
- Pronunciation: Using appropriate styles for different languages.
- Emotion and drama: Essential in opera and art songs for conveying character and narrative.
Stagecraft and Presence
Involves how singers present themselves on stage:
- Gestures and movement: Using historical gestures in Baroque opera; more natural acting in Romantic and modern works.
- Interaction with ensemble: Being aware of the conductor, instrumentalists, and fellow singers.
- Audience engagement: Adapting expression and projection for various venues and audiences.
Collaboration and Accompaniment
Understanding how to collaborate with other musicians:
- Recognizing the role of continuo in Baroque music or piano in art songs.
- Balancing the voice with an orchestra or small ensemble.
- Using historically informed tuning and temperament.
Use of Editions and Scores
- Some editions include editorial markings not found in the original scores.
- Singers may study original manuscripts to understand the composer's intent.
Language and Style
- Familiarity with the poetic and musical structures like Lied, chanson, or madrigal.
- Adjusting phrasing and musical choices to fit the language's rhythm and meaning.
In summary, performance practice in singing combines historical research, vocal skills, and artistic expression. It allows singers to connect deeply with music, respecting its origins while effectively engaging with modern audiences.