Singing Guide: Harry James

Singing Guide: Harry James

Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources

Are you a beginner or advanced singer?

Harry James was an American musician and bandleader, known for his trumpet playing and swing-era big band sound. His style was characterized by his technical virtuosity, soaring high notes, and a warm, burnished tone. To learn to sing like Harry James, one must understand his unique vocal techniques and listen to the songs that showcase them.

James was known for his melodic improvisations and his use of vibrato, which added a lyrical quality to his trumpet playing. He also had a wide vocal range, which he demonstrated in songs like "Ciribiribin" and "Trumpet Blues and Cantabile." To start emulating his sound, focus on your breath support and try to elongate phrases as much as possible.

  • One of the techniques that James utilized in his playing was the use of a half-valve technique, where the trumpet player only partially depresses the valve to alter the pitch. This technique can be emulated by singers by practicing vocal glissandos, or sliding between notes. The pitch accuracy test on Singing Carrots can also be a helpful tool to develop accuracy and precision in pitch control.
  • Another key feature of James' sound was his use of vibrato. Vibrato is a rapid, slight fluctuation in pitch, which gives the sound a more expressive quality. To learn how to utilize vibrato in your singing, Singing Carrots offers several videos, including an excellent guide to singing with vibrato that demonstrates various methods to incorporate it into your sound.
  • Finally, a recommended song to illustrate James' style and vocal technique is "You Made Me Love You." In this song, he showcases his wide range and ability to sustain long notes. By analyzing your voice with Singing Carrots' vocal range test and practicing with the Pitch Training tool, you can work on extending your own range.

By focusing on the techniques mentioned above and utilizing Singing Carrots' tools and resources, you can learn to sing like Harry James and develop your own unique sound.

Learn more about this artist vocal range, voice type and repertoire.