Dear Listers:
Here is a response I got on this question from a mezzo-soprano colleague who
sings professionally and has a large private voice studio:
As you said, today's "alto" sections are made up of short range
sopranos who sang alto in high school, 90% of it in chest. The
biggest problem in my experience is getting them to not be "afraid"
of anything above a c (octave above middle c) or so....the problems with short
range sopranos are usually mental first and physical second. ("I sound like such
a
wimp up there" and "I just can't do it.", etc.) Most of them can.
Lady baritones like Bea Arthur are few and far between. I've had one for
lessons and even she sang well up to about a D, although she hated it.
Try another clinican...either the soprano or another mezzo. On the
other hand, if they had a good voice to lean on and "copy" that might
really help. Your and his call......good luck.
Again, the funds aren't there for a section leader. I'll bet the soprano
clinician will come back and work with my friend's altos, tho! I'll just have
to "make do" with vocalises! :( !!
Ed
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