Singing Guide: Sigur Ros
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Sigur Rós is a post-rock band hailing from Iceland, with a unique sound that blends ethereal, dreamy soundscapes, and emotive, falsetto vocals.
In this article, we will explore how to learn singing like Jónsi, the lead vocalist of the band, who is known for his enchanting falsetto and his unique approach to singing.
To start with, let's examine the unique vocal technique of Jónsi. He sings in falsetto, which is an airy, breathy singing register often used in pop, folk, and classical music. To achieve a great falsetto, one must first develop a strong breath support, practice proper posture, and use the appropriate vocal range.
Breath support is critical in falsetto singing as it requires a high volume of air to be let out for the voice to reach the high notes. Exercises like the Farinelli breathing exercise are ideal for warming up the diaphragm and strengthening the breath control.
To achieve the right posture, one must keep the back straight, and the chin at a reasonable level to make sure that the sound coming out of your mouth is as clean and pure as possible. Good singing posture is necessary for good singing in any range or style.
When it comes to using the right range for falsetto singing, starting from a relatively low range and gently pushing upwards can produce a pure falsetto voice. Use singing exercises like "Chest Voice Explained," which is an excellent way to comprehend the different vocal registers and how to use them.
Furthermore, Singing Carrots provides excellent technical, practical, and skill-related resources to help you learn falsetto singing and develop your voice. For instance, the Pitch training tool offers interactive vocal warm-ups, a pitch visualizer, and exercises for range and agility. Besides, the Vocal pitch monitor allows you to see your sung notes on a virtual piano, and the vocal range test helps you determine your vocal range, comparing it with famous singers.
Moreover, learning Jónsi's songs is an excellent way to imitate his unique singing style. Some iconic songs of the band include "Hoppípolla," "Untitled #8," "Sæglópur," and "Starálfur." By studying and singing along with Jónsi's songs, you can practice creating unique melodies with your voice, utilizing similar techniques as Jónsi.
In conclusion, learning to sing like Jónsi of Sigur Rós involves establishing a strong breath support, assuming a good posture, and using the appropriate vocal range. The Singing Carrots resources discussed are valuable in helping hone your singing skills and building on your unique style. Additionally, practicing Jónsi's songs is a perfect way to imitate his falsetto singing, which requires consistent practice and dedication.