Singing Guide: Billy Rose's Diamond Horseshoe
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Billy Rose's Diamond Horseshoe was a cabaret nightclub in midtown Manhattan that was well known in the 1940s and 1950s. The club was named after the famous horse of the same name, and featured live musical performances, including some of the biggest names in entertainment at the time. One such performer was Lena Horne, an American singer and actress known for her striking good looks, powerful voice, and dynamic stage presence.
Learning to sing like Lena Horne requires a great deal of dedication and practice, but with the right techniques, anyone can improve their vocal range and develop a stage presence that commands attention. Here are some tips for learning to sing like Lena Horne:
-
Work on your breathing: Breathing is one of the most important aspects of singing, and Lena Horne was known for her powerful breath control. Practice diaphragmatic breathing exercises like those found in the Farinelli Breathing video to help support your voice and improve your range.
-
Develop your tone and pitch: Lena Horne had a rich, velvety voice that was both powerful and emotional. Take Singing Carrots' Pitch Accuracy Test to assess your current pitch accuracy, and use the Vocal Pitch Monitor to help you see where you need to improve. Incorporate vocal exercises like the ones found in the Singing Comfort Zone video to help strengthen your tone.
-
Work on your stage presence: Lena Horne was an incredibly dynamic and charismatic performer, and her stage presence was just as important as her singing ability. Study her performances and learn how to use your body, facial expressions, and gestures to create a powerful stage presence. Learn more practical advice on stage tips.
-
Practice, practice, practice: Consistent practice is key to improving your singing abilities. Utilize resources like Singing Carrots' Pitch Training game to help you improve your accuracy, agility, and range. Make sure to also practice a range of songs that showcase different aspects of your voice to help you refine your overall technique.
By following these tips and utilizing the resources provided by Singing Carrots, you can work towards developing a singing style reminiscent of Lena Horne. Don't forget to also incorporate singing health best practices to take care of your voice, especially since you'll be practicing a lot. Best of luck on your singing journey!