How to Sing Ella Fitzgerald’s “All the Things You Are”
Ella Fitzgerald’s rendition of “All the Things You Are” is a timeless masterpiece that showcases her incredible vocal talent and unique vocal technique. In this article, we will explore how to learn and sing this song, highlighting the vocal techniques used by Ella Fitzgerald and mentioning other popular songs where similar techniques are used.
Understanding the Song
Before diving into learning the song, it’s essential to understand its structure and meaning. “All the Things You Are” is a beautiful ballad composed by Jerome Kern with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. The song features a lyrical melody and poetic lyrics, making it a perfect choice to showcase your vocal skills.
Unique Vocal Technique
Ella Fitzgerald’s rendition of “All the Things You Are” is known for her beautiful phrasing, impeccable intonation, and her ability to deliver the emotional depth of the song. One unique vocal technique she uses is called scatting. Scat singing is a vocal improvisation style where the singer uses nonsensical syllables and vocal sounds to create melodies and rhythms. Ella Fitzgerald was a master at scatting, and she incorporates scatting in various parts of the song, adding a playful and exciting dimension to her performance.
Similar Techniques in Other Songs
The use of scatting is not limited to “All the Things You Are.” Ella Fitzgerald is well-known for her scat singing, and she incorporated this technique in many of her songs. Some popular songs by Ella Fitzgerald where you can find scatting include “A-Tisket, A-Tasket,” “How High the Moon,” and “Lady be Good!”
Practical Tips for Learning the Song
Learning a song like “All the Things You Are” requires both technical and interpretive skills. Here are some practical tips to help you learn and sing the song effectively:
- Step 1: Analyze Your Voice – Understanding your vocal range and voice type is essential in interpreting the song. Take the vocal range test provided by Singing Carrots to determine your vocal range and compare it with famous singers.
- Step 2: Study the Lyrics and Melody – Read and analyze the lyrics of the song to understand its meaning and emotions. Listen to Ella Fitzgerald’s version to internalize the melody and phrasing.
- Step 3: Breath Support and Control – Use Singing Carrots’ breathing basics and breath support resources to improve your breath control. This will help you sustain long phrases and deliver the emotional nuances of the song.
- Step 4: Vocal Registers and Breaks – Learn about voice registers and how to navigate vocal breaks using Singing Carrots’ vocal registers and vocal break articles. This knowledge will help you transition smoothly between different parts of the song.
- Step 5: Articulation and Diction – Practice articulation and diction exercises to ensure clarity in your singing. Singing Carrots’ articulation article provides useful tips and techniques for improving your pronunciation while singing.
- Step 6: Emotional Expression – Channel the emotions of the song and bring your unique interpretation to the performance. Singing Carrots’ resources on singing with intuition, emotion, and thinking will help you connect deeply with the song.
Resources from Singing Carrots
Singing Carrots offers a range of resources that can support your journey in learning and mastering “All the Things You Are.” Here are some recommended resources:
- Vocal range test – Determine your vocal range and compare it with famous singers.
- Pitch accuracy test – Improve your pitch accuracy with Singing Carrots’ interactive exercises.
- Vocal Pitch Monitor – Use the Pitch Monitor to visualize your sung notes on a virtual piano.
- Pitch Training – Engage in interactive vocal warm-ups and pitch exercises.
- Song search – Find songs by vocal range to expand your repertoire.
- Vocal ranges of famous singers – Learn about the vocal ranges of famous singers for inspiration and comparison.
- Educational singing course – Take an educational singing course to enhance your vocal skills.