Legit singing

Definition

Legit singing refers to a vocal style that emphasizes natural, classical techniques used primarily in musical theater and opera. It often involves clear diction, resonant tone, and a focus on lyrical storytelling, allowing performers to convey deep emotion and character through their singing. This style is distinct from other genres in musical theater, as it leans towards a more formal, structured approach to vocal performance, often paralleling traditional operatic methods.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Legit singing is characterized by a classical tone quality and often requires singers to use a full head voice to achieve a rich sound.
2. In legit singing, the emphasis is placed on storytelling through music, making emotional connections with the audience an important aspect of the performance.
3. This vocal style is commonly found in the works of composers like Rodgers and Hammerstein or Lerner and Loewe, who wrote musicals that often require this type of singing technique.
4. Singers using the legit style must master breath control and support to maintain vocal health while producing the powerful and sustained notes required by this genre.
5. While legit singing shares similarities with classical techniques, it adapts to fit the specific demands of musical theater by allowing for greater emotional expression in performance.

Review Questions

• How does legit singing integrate with acting and dancing in musical theater performances?
  • Legit singing integrates with acting and dancing by requiring performers to embody their characters fully while delivering their lines musically. This means that singers must convey emotions not only through their vocal delivery but also through their physicality and expressions. The ability to act while singing enhances the storytelling aspect of a performance, creating a more engaging experience for the audience, while choreography must complement the musical phrasing and emotional intent behind the song.
• Discuss the role of vocal interpretation and styling in legit singing and how it differs from other musical theater styles.
  • Vocal interpretation and styling in legit singing play a significant role in shaping how a song is perceived by the audience. Singers must interpret lyrics thoughtfully, using dynamics and phrasing that align with character emotions. Unlike styles such as pop or rock, which may prioritize energy or vocal tricks, legit singing focuses on clarity and expressive storytelling. This difference emphasizes the importance of lyrical integrity and emotional depth in performances that utilize this style.
• Evaluate how legit singing techniques can enhance a performer’s ability to connect with their audience in musical theater.
  • Legit singing techniques enhance a performer’s ability to connect with their audience by prioritizing clarity of expression and emotional authenticity. By utilizing proper breath support and vocal placement, singers can project their voices without sacrificing tone quality or resonance. This allows them to deliver powerful performances that resonate emotionally with listeners. The storytelling aspect inherent in legit singing invites audiences to engage deeply with the narrative being portrayed, fostering a stronger emotional connection between the performer and the audience.

Related terms

Bel canto: An Italian term meaning 'beautiful singing', emphasizing a technique that prioritizes smooth vocal production, control, and expressive phrasing.

Vocal placement: The technique of positioning the voice in a way that optimizes resonance and projection, crucial for effective legit singing.

Articulation:

The clarity of speech and pronunciation in singing, essential for ensuring that lyrics are understood while performing in the legit style.