How to Learn Singing “Anything You Can Do” from Ethel Merman

How to Learn Singing “Anything You Can Do” by Ethel Merman

Are you ready to challenge yourself and showcase your vocal skills? Learning to sing “Anything You Can Do” by Ethel Merman is a great way to do just that. In this article, we will guide you through the process of mastering this iconic song and highlight a unique vocal technique known as belting that Merman was famous for.

Understanding the Song

“Anything You Can Do” is a lively and spirited duet from the timeless musical “Annie Get Your Gun.” Ethel Merman, known for her powerful voice and commanding stage presence, originally performed this song in the Broadway production. The song features a friendly competition between the characters Annie Oakley and Frank Butler, as they engage in a playful back-and-forth exchange.

The Belting Technique

One of the distinctive aspects of Ethel Merman’s singing style is her use of the belting technique. Belting is a powerful and resonant vocal approach commonly employed in musical theater and popular music. It involves singing with a strong chest voice, producing a rich, full sound that can cut through a full orchestra.

In “Anything You Can Do,” Ethel Merman showcases her belting prowess, particularly in the high notes during the competitive sections of the song. To emulate Merman’s style, it is crucial to understand and practice the belting technique.

Practical Advice

Here are some practical tips to help you learn and master “Anything You Can Do” like Ethel Merman:

  1. Begin by analyzing your voice and determining your vocal range using the Vocal Range Test offered by Singing Carrots. This will help you identify the appropriate key for the song.
  2. Study and familiarize yourself with the lyrics and melody of the song. Pay close attention to the rhythm and phrasing.
  3. Work on your breath support by practicing deep diaphragmatic breathing. This will provide the necessary power and control for belting.
  4. Learn proper vocal warm-up exercises to prepare your voice before attempting the song. Singing Carrots offers a Pitch Training program that includes vocal warm-ups and exercises for range and agility.
  5. Focus on opening your mouth and throat while singing to enhance resonance and clarity. Singing Carrots provides a helpful article on Opening Mouth & Throat Techniques.
  6. Listen to Ethel Merman’s performance of the song several times to capture her unique interpretation and style. Incorporate elements of her phrasing and dynamics into your own rendition.
  7. Practice performing the song with a live accompanist or a high-quality instrumental backing track. This will help you develop a sense of timing and perform with confidence.
  8. Record and analyze your performances to identify areas for improvement. Singing Carrots offers a guide on how to analyze your voice to help you assess and refine your singing technique.

Related Resources

Here are some Singing Carrots resources that can further support your journey in learning and mastering “Anything You Can Do”:

  • Check out the Educational Singing Course offered by Singing Carrots. This comprehensive course covers singing theory and provides practical tips to enhance your vocal abilities.
  • Browse Singing Carrots’ extensive collection of vocal ranges of famous singers. This can give you insights into similar vocal techniques used by other renowned artists.
  • Use the song search feature on Singing Carrots to find more songs that match your vocal range, difficulty level, and genre preferences. This will help you expand your repertoire and continue honing your singing skills. Search songs by vocal range.