How Does Falsetto Work?

Guest post by Katie Sanakai for 30 Day Singer and Guitar Tricks

You may think of your voice as one seamless, unified structure, but your voice has several different sections, known as vocal registers, that singing teachers have categorized and named.

In this article

1. Understanding Falsetto: Definition and Characteristics
2. The Science Behind Falsetto
3. Head Voice vs. Falsetto: Key Differences and Similarities
4. The Role of Falsetto in Various Music Genres
5. What Does This Mean for My Singing?
6. What is My Break?
7. What is Belting?
8. The Benefits and Risks of Falsetto Singing
9. Female Falsetto: Fact or Fiction?
10. The Impact of Vocal Health on Falsetto Singing
11. Inspiration and Lessons Learned
12. Final Notes on Falsetto Voice
13. How Does Falsetto Work? Frequently Asked Questions

Have you ever wondered how singers hit those high notes effortlessly, creating a unique and captivating sound? That’s the magic of falsetto, a vocal technique that has gained popularity across various music genres. In this journey, we’ll explore the world of falsetto, its science, techniques, and inspiring stories of famous falsetto singers.

Understanding Falsetto: Definition and Characteristics

Falsetto is a vocal technique that allows singers to hit notes higher than their normal voice can reach. This enables them to sing falsetto and create a distinctive, high-pitched, airy sound. 

While falsetto is widely believed to be associated with male singers, both male and female singers can produce this unique vocal register. Falsetto allows male singers to imitate a female voice and differs from the head voice in its breathy quality and how the vocal folds are used. The term “falsetto” comes from the Italian word “falso,” meaning “false,” as it refers to the false voice that differs from the normal or modal voice register.

The key characteristic of falsetto is the breathy quality it produces. The vocal folds are blown apart, allowing singers to reach notes beyond their normal vocal range. This contrasts the modal register, where the true vocal folds come together entirely during each vibration, closing the gap between them.

The Science Behind Falsetto

The science behind falsetto lies in the larynx, also known as the “voice box,” which houses our vocal cords. When singing in falsetto, the vocal cords come together and vibrate lighter and thinner than when singing normally, creating a different sound from the chest and head voices. In falsetto, the vocal chords are controlled to produce a higher pitch, impacting vocalization and resonance by favoring the head voice and mixed voice.

Vocal mechanics play a crucial role in falsetto singing. The vocal cords come together to vibrate due to resistance to the air from the lungs. There are three modes of resistance – pressed, breathy, and flow — which a vocal coach can help singers understand and master. Balancing these modes and coordinating with the larynx is essential for achieving a skillful falsetto.

Vocal Folds and Falsetto

Falsetto is a fascinating vocal technique that allows singers to reach high notes by uniquely manipulating their vocal folds. When you sing in falsetto, your vocal folds don’t fully close, resulting in that breathy, airy sound. This differs from the head voice, where the vocal folds come together completely, producing a richer and more resonant tone.

Understanding how your vocal folds work is crucial for mastering falsetto. In falsetto, the vocal folds are stretched and thinned, allowing for higher pitches but with less power and volume than the chest voice. This technique can add a distinctive texture to your singing, making it a valuable tool in your vocal arsenal. By learning to control your vocal folds, you can achieve a beautiful falsetto sound that enhances your overall vocal performance.

Head Voice vs. Falsetto: Key Differences and Similarities

Although head voice and falsetto are often confused, they are distinct vocal registers. Head voice singing is characterized by a richer and steadier vibrato that resonates at a higher range than our normal speaking voice, while falsetto has a lighter, breathier sound.

When it comes to richness, falsetto gives a breathy quality to higher notes, whereas head voice provides a fuller and more even sound on the higher pitches of a singer’s voice. The balance between these vocal registers is also significant: Falsetto offers a lighter sound on the high notes, while head voice delivers a fuller, more balanced tone on the high pitches.

Mastering the transition between head voice and falsetto and using them harmoniously can help singers achieve a versatile and dynamic vocal performance.

Let’s start with the definition of these voices:

Chest Voice (or Full Voice)

The chest voice for men and women is the voice that resonates most in the chest. Place a hand on your chest and speak in a loud speaking voice or sing a low note. You will feel the vibrations of your voice within your chest cavity. Like an acoustic guitar needs a hollow body to resonate, a singing voice also needs resonators. 

Head Voice

Head voice for men and women is the voice that resonates most in your head, mainly your sinuses, nose and mouth. If you depress your sinuses, you can usually feel the vibration or sense the absence of vibration in your chest as you jump from a low to a high note.

Falsetto

This register is typically only used to describe male voices. In men, it is the part of their singing voice that is lighter, more gentle, and a little more breathy or airy at the very top of their singing voice.

If you are a male singer, you have your chest or full voice; above the break, you have a head voice. At the very top of your register is your falsetto voice. Despite the somewhat negative-sounding name, the falsetto voice is still instrumental and used by many pop singers in the upper register.

The mechanism for singing falsetto versus singing in your head voice is different, and a voice teacher can help you navigate the difference in vocal technique. Singing in falsetto doesn’t require the same breath support as a lower register. The notes are easier to sustain but sometimes hard to start. Try an “h” sound at the beginning of a vowel to help you start a note in your falsetto.

The Role of Falsetto in Various Music Genres

Falsetto has found its place in numerous music genres, such as soul, Motown, indie rock, rock, blues, and hip-hop, and can significantly expand a singer’s vocal range:

• Soul: falsetto adds an emotional and soulful touch to the song
• Motown: falsetto injects energy and excitement
• Indie rock, rock, blues and hip-hop: falsetto contributes texture and depth to the song

This makes the falsetto register a versatile and powerful vocal tool across various styles.

The adaptability of falsetto in different genres demonstrates its potential to create a unique sound and captivate audiences. Whether you’re an aspiring singer or a seasoned performer, incorporating falsetto into your repertoire can enhance your musical expression and set you apart from other artists.

Justin Timberlake, Pharrell Williams and Justin Vernon of Bon Iver are a few singers who use falsetto in their singing. No song would be entirely sung in falsetto; it’s the higher, lighter sections that women can easily sing along with. Picture the chorus to “Happy” or “Can’t Stop the Feeling” or the opening verse of “Skinny Love.”

What Does This Mean for My Singing?

A balanced mixed voice combines elements of head voice, chest voice and falsetto, providing a versatile and dynamic vocal range through proper vocal technique. Developing a mixed voice is essential for singers as it allows them to easily hit high notes and maintain a consistent tone throughout their vocal range.

It’s essential to work on vocal exercises that blend different vocal registers, such as the Lip Trill exercise, to achieve a balanced mixed voice. This exercise helps singers transition through each part of their voice, providing a strong and even tone throughout their range.

Exercises for Building a Mixed Voice

You must use it to practice or strengthen your falsetto singing. Singing is like weightlifting; working out regularly builds endurance and skill. 

To access your falsetto, try this vocal exercise: A 5-note descending major scale (5-4-3-2-1 or Sol-Fa-Mi-Re-Do) starting on a “hoo” sound like an owl. The “h” helps get the pitch going. You will want to pick a very high note toward the top of your register, for example, A above middle C. Try not to flip back into your full voice as you work down.

Eventually, you will run out of accessible notes and switch to full voice.

Now, try blending. Do the same exercise, but switch between your falsetto and head voice somewhere in the middle of the 5-note scale, trying to combine the notes so the change doesn’t sound too abrupt. This is a labor that singers perfect over many years, so don’t expect to become an overnight sensation at this.

To further develop a mixed voice, singers can practice exercises designed to strengthen and balance their vocal registers. Some of these exercises include:

• Yawning
• Holding your nose while singing
• Saying “nyah” with a scrunched nose
• Using consonants in front of vowel sounds while doing scales

Another way to get some falsetto practice is to pick a song by a female artist and try to sing it in their register (not down an octave). Pick something light and gentle to start!

In addition to practicing these exercises, seeking guidance from a voice teacher or vocal coach can provide personalized feedback and tailored exercises to help you achieve a strong, balanced mixed voice. Consistent practice and dedication are essential in mastering the art of mixed voice singing.

What is My Break?

We refer to the spot where you need to switch between chest and head voice as their break, a crucial aspect of managing vocal registers.

Since many of our musical terms come from Italian (and many singing terms come from opera), let’s use a more helpful term than break. In Italian, we call the few notes that can be sung in either chest or head your passagio or passageway. This is a more helpful way of thinking of the transition area because, depending on the song, you can vary where and when you switch (it’s part of the art of being a singer and is very individual). If you want to get a rough idea of where your break or passagio is, try a siren sound.

Starting in the lowest part of your voice, sing a (very loud) sound like a siren rising. Eventually, you will hear your voice flip between head and chest (it will sound like your voice cracking). That is the passageway where you must work on blending the two registers and making artistic decisions about how to do so.

What is Belting?

Belt voice is its own technique. It takes the sound of your chest voice (the loud, supported, full sound) and carries it into the high register. Many of today’s female pop stars have perfected the art of belting.

How Do You Belt?

Belting is a skill that requires excellent vocal technique, breath control and consistent practice. To belt high notes effectively, you may engage your chest voice, which resonates most in your chest and produces a strong, powerful sound. This involves using your diaphragm to support your breath and ensuring your vocal cords work efficiently.

Practicing exercises that strengthen your vocal cords and improve breath control is essential for belting. For instance, try singing scales while focusing on maintaining a strong, supported sound. Working with a voice teacher can be incredibly beneficial, as they can provide personalized feedback and help you develop the proper technique. Remember, belting should feel powerful but not strained, so always listen to your body and avoid pushing your voice too hard.

The Benefits and Risks of Falsetto Singing

Falsetto singing offers numerous benefits, such as expanding your vocal range and adding texture to your voice. However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with overusing falsetto, which can cause vocal strain and damage in the long run. One of the main concerns is that improper vocal technique can strain your vocal cords.

To mitigate these risks and maintain good vocal health, singers who frequently use falsetto should adequately care for their vocal cords by staying hydrated, avoiding excessive throat clearing or shouting, and adhering to good vocal practice. Giving your voice a break when needed and not pushing your falsetto range beyond its limits will help ensure your voice remains healthy and resilient.

Benefits of Falsetto Singing

Falsetto singing offers numerous benefits that can enhance your vocal performance. One primary advantage is that it allows you to easily hit high notes, which is particularly useful in genres like pop, rock, and R&B. Falsetto also adds a unique texture to your voice, giving your singing a distinctive and captivating quality.

Moreover, incorporating falsetto into your singing can help expand your vocal range and improve your overall vocal technique. By practicing falsetto, you can develop greater control over your voice and explore new musical possibilities. Many famous singers, such as Justin Timberlake and Pharrell Williams, have used falsetto to great effect, showcasing its versatility and emotional impact in their music.

Risks of Falsetto Singing

Falsetto singing offers numerous benefits, such as expanding your vocal range and adding texture to your voice. However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with overusing falsetto, which can cause vocal strain and damage in the long run.

To mitigate these risks and maintain good vocal health, singers who frequently use falsetto should adequately care for their vocal cords by staying hydrated, avoiding excessive throat clearing or shouting and adhering to good vocal practice. Giving your voice a break when needed and not pushing your falsetto range beyond its limits will help ensure your voice remains healthy and resilient.

Female Falsetto: Fact or Fiction?

The debate surrounding the existence of falsetto in female singers has led to misconceptions that only men can produce a true falsetto voice. However, female falsetto is real, and women can produce falsetto sounds, although it’s not as widely discussed as male falsetto.

Like a male falsetto, a female falsetted to create a distinctive sound and experiment with various vocal approaches. Embracing and mastering falsetto techniques can benefit both male and female singers, helping them expand their vocal range and versatility through proper vocal technique.

The Impact of Vocal Health on Falsetto Singing

Singers who frequently use falsetto in their performances must maintain good vocal health. Proper vocal technique plays a vital role in preserving vocal health when singing in falsetto, helping to prevent fatigue and keep the voice in good condition.

Singers who use falsetto should prioritize their vocal health by staying hydrated, avoiding excessive throat clearing or shouting, and adhering to good vocal practice. Taking care of your voice and using falsetto techniques responsibly will help ensure a sustainable and successful singing career.

Inspiration and Lessons Learned

They have captivated audiences with their unique vocal styles. These artists have demonstrated the power of falsetto in creating emotional, soulful and energetic performances, showcasing the versatility of this vocal technique.

Falsetto Is Just One Vocal Technique

Famous falsetto singers employ techniques — such as vibrato, breath control and vocal range — to create their signature sound. Learning from their experiences and incorporating these techniques into your singing can help you develop a unique falsetto style and enhance your musical expression.

Aspiring singers can draw inspiration from famous falsetto artists mentioned above: Timberlake, Williams and Vernon. They recognize the importance of breath control, vibrato and vocal range in mastering this captivating vocal style. Embracing falsetto singing expands one’s vocal abilities and allows one to connect with listeners on a deeper emotional level.

Final Notes on Falsetto Voice

Throughout this journey, we’ve explored the fascinating world of falsetto, from its definition and characteristics to the science behind it and the techniques and tips for mastering this unique vocal style. We’ve delved into the differences and similarities between head voice and falsetto, the role of falsetto in various music genres, and the importance of vocal health and a balanced mixed voice.

Learning from the inspirational stories of famous falsetto singers can help us appreciate the power and versatility of this captivating vocal technique.

How Does Falsetto Work? Frequently Asked Questions

Do females have falsetto?

Yes, females have falsetto, and there was a myth that they couldn’t due to their higher vocal ranges. However, singers of all genders can produce a falsetto sound through proper vocal technique.

Can anyone sing falsetto?

Yes, everyone can sing falsetto — studies have shown that everyone’s vocal cords work similarly, and anyone can sing falsetto with the proper vocal technique.

Is falsetto actually singing?

Falsetto is a vocal technique used by singers to hit higher notes. It usually involves loosening the vocal cord closure. Although its Latin name implies a false sound, it has proven useful and real.

Falsetto is widely used in modern music by both male and female singers alike to achieve their desired sound.

When is falsetto not allowed?

Falsetto is allowed when it’s part of a singer’s vocal palette. Using head voice is crucial for properly singing high notes with the correct vocal technique.

What is the difference between head voice and falsetto?

Head voice has a fuller, smoother sound compared to falsetto’s airy, lighter tone.

How do I use these techniques?

Start with the song you’d like to sing. As you sing it, keep a hand on your chest to feel what sections of the song are in your chest versus your head voice. If a section feels hard to transition, try singing it in each way and find the best spot to transition between registers.

If a very high section can be sung lightly, you can also practice it in your falsetto. The art of singing is making the decisions that make the song carry emotional impact, and sometimes, a change in your vocal technique can do just that!