falsettist

A falsettist is a male singer who produces vocal tones in the falsetto register. This register is characterized by a higher pitch than the singer's normal modal voice and is achieved by a different vibration of the vocal folds, often involving the thinning of the edges of the folds or the use of a lighter mode of vibration. The falsetto register is distinct from the head voice, although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably in less technical contexts.

The use of falsetto singing has a long history across various musical traditions. In Western music, it has been employed in genres ranging from early choral music and opera to folk, pop, and rock. Composers have often utilized falsetto for specific dramatic or expressive effects, such as conveying vulnerability, fragility, or an ethereal quality.

Notable male singers who have employed falsetto extensively include Frankie Valli, Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys, Prince, and Thom Yorke of Radiohead, among many others. These artists have incorporated falsetto into their signature sounds, demonstrating its versatility and potential for compelling vocal expression. The technique requires considerable control and stamina to produce consistently and effectively. While some associate falsetto with a weaker or less powerful sound, skilled falsettists can achieve a rich and resonant tone, making it a powerful tool in their vocal arsenal.