Singer

A singer is a person who uses the voice as a primary musical instrument. Singers may perform solo, with an orchestra, a choir, or in contemporary groups, and may pursue singing as a hobby, training, or career.

Technique and training: Effective singing relies on breath support, pitch accuracy, tone quality, resonance, and diction. Many singers study with teachers or attend conservatories or music programs to develop control across a range of dynamics and languages. Repertoire spans multiple languages and styles.

Genres and roles: Singers work in classical traditions such as opera and art song, as well as pop, rock, jazz, folk, gospel, and world music. They may be lead vocalists, background vocalists, session singers for recordings, or performers in musical theater.

Performance and craft: Performances combine singing with performance skills, stage presence, and sometimes choreography. Amplification and recording technology can affect a singer's approach, but the core remains the voice.

Vocal health and classification: Maintaining vocal health is important; improper technique or strain can cause injury. Voices are often described by ranges or classifications, though classification varies by tradition; commonly used categories include soprano, mezzo-soprano, contralto for female voices; countertenor, tenor, baritone, bass for male voices.