Vibrato in the modern pop-music: technological and performing aspects

Abstract

In the center of the author’s attention is one of the most important vocal methods – the vibrato widely used both in the professional music of academic tradition, especially in the opera genre, as well as in various genres of pop-music, rock or jazz. The author examines the physiological aspects of the given method, explains how the sound is emitted when vibrato is applied. Types of realization of this procedure are differentiated: with the oscillation of the sound in the ascending or descending direction, with the oscillation of the vocal „mask” or of the vocal cords, etc. The author proposes some exercises that can be useful for developing the skills of correct vibrato application. Likewise, the differences of vibrato in classical music and pop-music, rock or jazz are demonstrated. As far as the styles and genres of pop music are concerned, the use of the given process is mainly evidenced in the vocal ballad genre, adding an emotional depth to the performance, emphasizing the color of the voice and easing the emission of the vocal sound. So, the vibrato technique is an important component of any contemporary vocalist’s arsenal.