How to Learn Singing “The World Above” from The Little Mermaid
Learning a new song can be exciting and challenging. In this article, we will explore how to effectively learn and sing “The World Above” from the Broadway musical The Little Mermaid. This enchanting song showcases the unique vocal technique of narrative storytelling and emotive expressions.
Understanding the Song
“The World Above” is a beautiful and introspective song sung by Ariel, the curious and adventurous mermaid. The song introduces Ariel’s longing to explore the world beyond the ocean. It captures her sense of wonder, excitement, and dreams of a life beyond her current reality.
Vocal Technique: Narrative Storytelling
A key aspect of singing “The World Above” is to embrace the technique of narrative storytelling. To do this effectively, focus on bringing out the emotions and intentions of the character. Let Ariel’s curiosity and longing come through in your voice, allowing the audience to connect with her journey.
To enhance your storytelling, remember to vary your vocal dynamics, emphasizing certain words or phrases that convey Ariel’s emotions. Allow your voice to soar during moments of excitement and soften during moments of vulnerability. This will help create a captivating performance.
Practical Tips for Learning the Song
Here are some practical tips to help you learn and master “The World Above”:
- Listen to the Original Recording: Start by listening to the original Broadway cast recording of The Little Mermaid. Pay attention to the phrasing, vocal nuances, and overall mood of the song. This will provide a solid foundation for learning the piece.
- Study the Sheet Music: Obtain the sheet music for “The World Above” and take the time to analyze it. Pay attention to the melody, rhythm, and lyrics. Familiarize yourself with the structure of the song, including the verse and chorus sections.
- Break Down the Song: Divide the song into smaller sections and work on each part individually. Start by learning the melody and lyrics of the first verse, then gradually move on to the chorus and subsequent verses. Practice each section until you feel comfortable with the timing and phrasing.
- Focus on Emotion and Expression: As mentioned earlier, the emotional journey of Ariel is central to this song. Put yourself in Ariel’s shoes and let her emotions guide your performance. Experiment with different vocal expressions and nuances to convey her feelings effectively.
- Record Yourself: Use Singing Carrots’ Vocal Pitch Monitor tool to record yourself while singing “The World Above.” This will help you identify areas that need improvement and allow you to assess your performance objectively.
- Seek Feedback: Share your recording with a vocal coach or knowledgeable friend who can provide constructive feedback. They can offer valuable insights and suggestions on how to enhance your rendition of the song.
Other Songs with Similar Vocal Technique
The unique vocal technique of narrative storytelling used in “The World Above” can also be found in other popular songs. Here are a few examples: