If you hope to one day become a professional singer, voice lessons can be helpful. One crucial aspect of your lessons is determining your vocal range. Your vocal range is comprised of the lowest and highest notes you can sing comfortably, which allows music directors to determine whether you’re well-suited for a particular role. If you’re just starting out, this guide explains how to best determine your vocal range and voice type to put you a step ahead at auditions. 

Different Voice Types

There are six total voice types, with three for men and three for women, including from lowest to highest:

• Bass: As the lowest singing range for men, bass is one of the rarer singing types. Barry White is the most famous example of a bass. 
• Baritone: While it’s the second-lowest singing range for men, baritones are far more common. For example, Elvis Presley was considered a baritone. 
• Tenor: As the highest male vocal type, tenors can reach notes as high as C3 with ease. Famous tenors include Luciano Pavarotti and Placido Domingo.
• Alto: Much like bass for men, alto is the lowest singing voice for women. Cher is a classic example of an alto. 
• Mezzo-Soprano: While similar to sopranos in terms of range, mezzo-sopranos are the middle female voice type. These singers are often described as “belting out” notes, like Whitney Houston. 
• Soprano: Sopranos are known for having high, bright voices, such as Sarah Brightman. 

How to Determine Your Vocal Range

You’ll need a piano to test your vocal range. On an 88-key piano, middle C will be the fourth C key from the left. Starting at middle C, tap the keys going downward as you sing along until you reach the lowest note you can sing comfortably. Starting at middle C again, repeat the process going upwards until you reach the highest note you can comfortably sing. This will be your range. 

A skilled vocal instructor can help determine your vocal range, as well as providing other valuable guidance. That’s why parents in Columbia, MD, look to Suzuki Music School of Maryland, Inc. for voice and instrument lessons. Over the last three decades, this highly respected music school has nurtured the music education of many students from preschool to senior citizens. Students are also invited to take part in performances, where they can show off the skills they worked so hard to acquire. Visit them online to learn more about enrolling your child in virtual voice lessons. You can also call (410) 964-1983 to learn more.