How to Learn “Someone to Watch Over Me” by George Gershwin
“Someone to Watch Over Me” is a beautiful and iconic song written by George Gershwin. Learning to sing this song requires a combination of techniques and practice. In this article, we will explore the unique vocal techniques used in the song, provide practical advice for learning it, and suggest relevant resources from Singing Carrots to enhance your learning experience.
Understanding the Song
Before diving into the vocal techniques used in “Someone to Watch Over Me,” it is important to understand the song itself. It is a heartfelt and melancholic ballad that expresses the longing for someone to protect and watch over the singer. The emotional depth of the song requires careful attention to dynamics, phrasing, and expression.
Unique Vocal Technique: Legato Phrasing
One of the key vocal techniques used in “Someone to Watch Over Me” is legato phrasing. Legato refers to singing smoothly and connectedly, without any noticeable breaks between notes. This technique helps convey the longing and yearning expressed in the song. To achieve legato phrasing, focus on maintaining a steady flow of breath and smoothly transitioning between notes. Singing exercises that emphasize breath control and smooth vocal transitions can greatly assist in mastering this technique.
Recommended Exercises:
Practical Advice for Learning
Learning a song like “Someone to Watch Over Me” requires dedication and practice. Here are some practical tips to help you in your learning process:
1. Analyze Your Voice:
Understanding your vocal range and voice type is crucial. Take the Vocal Range Test offered by Singing Carrots to identify your range and compare it with famous singers to gain insights into your vocal potential.
2. Warm Up and Breathe:
Before diving into the song, warm up your voice with exercises that focus on breath support and control. Check out the Educational Singing Course on Singing Carrots for a comprehensive warm-up routine.
3. Practice Phrasing and Dynamics:
Pay close attention to the phrasing and dynamics of the song. Experiment with different vocal inflections to express the emotions of longing and vulnerability. Singing Carrots’ Pitch Training and song search tools can assist you in developing your phrasing and dynamics skills.
4. Study the Original Version:
Listening to different interpretations of “Someone to Watch Over Me” by notable singers can provide valuable insights. Singing Carrots’ Vocal Ranges of Famous Singers resource allows you to explore renditions by various artists.
Related Songs
The vocal techniques used in “Someone to Watch Over Me” are also found in other popular songs. Here are a few examples:
- “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra
- “The Way You Look Tonight” by Tony Bennett
- “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers
Conclusion
Learning to sing “Someone to Watch Over Me” is an enriching experience that allows you to explore the emotional depth of the song and improve your vocal skills. By incorporating the unique vocal technique of legato phrasing, practicing regularly, and utilizing Singing Carrots’ resources, you can master this beautiful ballad and enhance your singing abilities.