MUS 124
The Singing Voice: Mechanics, History and Meaning
Last Offered Spring 2009
Division I
This course is not offered in the current catalog

Why does an opera singer sound different from a rock singer? Why can’t one convincingly sing in the style of the other? And why is the former granted a higher status and the latter a wider audience? This course examines the physiological and acoustical properties of singing and explores the varieties of singing style and function including Western classical, jazz, pop and gospel as well as less familiar approaches such as overtone singing, yodeling and belting. The historical development of singing styles will be considered as will the meaning making of specific vocal qualities. Students will learn the basics of several singing styles.