Effects

What is an effect?

A vocal effect is a sound quality you add on top of a basic vocal function - for example vibrato, creaking or distortion.

Effects should always be a conscious choice, so you can switch them on and off depending on the expression you want.

Effects are emotions

Effects are not just technical tricks - they convey emotions. Breathiness can, for example, make a phrase more intimate or fragile, while effects such as distortion or growl can signal anger or desperation. That way, effects can help support the message in a song.

Vibrato

Vibrato is a rhythmic movement between two adjacent notes that occurs when the vocal folds vibrate at varying speeds. It can be described as an intentional instability - a small, conscious movement that gives the voice life, warmth, and emotional depth.

Vibrato is not in itself a sign of good technique, and constant vibrato can in certain genres seem out of place. Excessive or uncontrolled vibrato is often due to:

• Tension in the abdomen or throat
• Uneven airflow
• Uncertain intonation

Control over effects

The most important thing isn’t being able to do lots of effects, but being able to control them. As singers, we must be able to switch effects on and off without compromising tone or healthy vocal technique.

When effects are controlled consciously, they become a means of expression rather than a habit or compensation. This is where technique translates into artistic freedom - and where the voice can be used with nuance and personality.

Why work with effects?

Conscious use of effects gives:

• Greater stylistic freedom
• More personal expression
• Less risk of vocal strain