The Classical Voice Studio of Diana Farrell
Embrace Your Sound
Monday, April 12, 2021 by Diana Farrell | THOUGHTS FROM THE STUDIO
Singing 101: Embrace your unique sound! When I was an undergrad I adored Kiri Te Kanawa. I ate up everything she sang and listened religiously. She was really a gateway drug to Renee Fleming and I had the two of them on repeat for most of my favorite arias in my early college days. This is not a problem, except that even though I knew our voices didn't sound the same, I still tried to approach the music in the exact same way. It did not work for me! Even if I was not trying to manipulate my sound, I was absolutely not supporting my voice the way I needed to. Over the years I’ve been fortunate to study with some amazing teachers who really helped me find my own sound. Like my Kiri & Renee recordings, I didn't always share the same voice type as these teachers, but they helped me to make room for my own sound and balance the energy I needed to properly support it. Today, I have a handful of divas that I will listen to and identify with when it comes to technique and how to approach a difficult line, but I am much more aware of how different instruments deliver a musical idea differently. It can feel like we are always trying to measure up to our idols, but our differences - and unique qualities - are something to celebrate! I tell my younger and beginning students: listen to as many people as possible so you don't get stuck believing that there is only one correct approach or interpretation of a line, or a role, or an aria. Find out what your strengths are, figure out the most efficient and supportive way to show those strengths off in your own voice, and share your unique sound in a way only you can.
