Singing without lyrics - Oleosymusica.blog

Singing Without Lyrics: Exploring Non-Lexical Vocables in Music

Non-lexical vocables, characterized by the use of nonsense syllables, are a fascinating aspect of music that transcends cultural and stylistic boundaries. This vocal technique, devoid of lyrics, has been employed in various musical traditions and genres, showcasing the expressive power of the human voice. In this article, we will delve into the concept of singing without lyrics, exploring its historical roots, musical applications, and influence on different musical styles.

Traditional Music and Non-Lexical Vocables

Non-lexical vocables have a rich history in traditional music practices across different cultures. Yodeling, Native American music, Pygmy music, and Irish and English traditional music are among the many musical forms that utilize these vocal techniques. In these traditions, non-lexical vocables serve multiple purposes, including marking the beginning and end of phrases or sections, providing onomatopoeic references, and acting as cueing devices. This highlights their versatile nature and their ability to enhance the overall musical experience.

Scat Singing: Voice as an Instrument

Scat singing is a prominent example of singing without lyrics in the realm of popular music. It is a vocal technique that involves improvising melodies and rhythms using wordless vocables and syllables. Jazz singers, such as Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald, popularized scat singing, which allows vocalists to create improvised solos akin to instrumental performances. This style of singing has had a profound influence on the development of other genres, including doo-wop and hip hop, showcasing the versatility and creativity of the human voice.

Vocalise: The Melody Without Words

Vocalise, a term often used in classical music, refers to a singing exercise or vocal passage consisting of a melody without words. It serves as a means to develop vocal flexibility, control of pitch and tone, and expressive techniques. Vocalises can be found in various vocal compositions, allowing singers to showcase their technical prowess and emotional depth through the pure expression of melody. Renowned composers such as Sergei Rachmaninoff and Gabriel Fauré have composed vocalises that have become staple repertoire for vocalists.

Popular Music and Singing Without Words

The practice of singing without lyrics extends beyond classical and jazz genres and can be found in various styles of popular music. A cappella music, characterized by vocal performances without instrumental accompaniment, often incorporates non-lexical vocables and nonsense syllables to add texture and complexity to the vocal arrangements. Doo-wop, a style of rhythm and blues music, also frequently employs non-lexical vocables to enhance its harmonies and create a distinct sound.

Influence and Applications

The impact of singing without lyrics extends beyond specific musical genres. It has influenced the development of other musical styles, such as rock music and hip hop, where artists have drawn inspiration from scat singing and vocal improvisation. Additionally, non-lexical vocables find their place in orchestral accompaniment, where they can be used to create an ominous or grandiose effect. In vocal percussion, non-lexical vocables take on percussive roles, contributing to the rhythmic complexity of the performance.

Conclusion

Singing without lyrics, through the utilization of non-lexical vocables, showcases the boundless potential of the human voice as a musical instrument. This vocal technique is deeply rooted in traditional music, has found its place in popular music genres, and has influenced the development of various musical styles. Whether in classical vocalises, jazz scatting, or a cappella harmonies, singing without lyrics allows musicians to communicate and evoke emotions through pure melody and rhythm. As music continues to evolve, the expressive power of non-lexical vocables will undoubtedly remain an integral part of the musical landscape.

Sources:

Non-lexical vocables in music – Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-lexical_vocables_in_music)
Is there terminology for vocals that do not use lyrics in certain parts? – Music: Practice & Theory Stack Exchange (https://music.stackexchange.com/questions/111019/is-there-terminology-for-vocals-that-do-not-use-lyrics-in-certain-parts)
Vocalise | Singing Without Words – CMUSE (https://www.cmuse.org/singing-without-words/)

FAQs

What are non-lexical vocables in music?

Non-lexical vocables are a form of vocal expression that uses nonsense syllables instead of lyrics. Examples include “la la la,” “na na na,” and “da da da.” These vocables are used in a wide variety of musical styles and can convey emotions, melodies, and rhythms without relying on specific words.

In which musical traditions are non-lexical vocables commonly used?

Non-lexical vocables have a rich presence in various musical traditions. They can be found in yodeling, Native American music, Pygmy music, and Irish and English traditional music. These vocables serve different purposes, such as marking the beginning and end of phrases, providing onomatopoeic references, and acting as cueing devices.

What is scat singing and how does it relate to singing without lyrics?

Scat singing is a style of vocal improvisation popularized in jazz music. It involves using non-lexical vocables and syllables to create improvised melodies and rhythms. Scat singing allows vocalists to emulate the improvisational qualities of instrumental solos, making it a prime example of singing without specific lyrics.

What is the significance of vocalise in classical music?

Vocalise refers to the singing of a melody without words. It is often used as a vocal exercise or as a passage in classical compositions. Vocalise helps singers develop skills such as flexibility, control of pitch and tone, and expressive techniques. Composers like Sergei Rachmaninoff and Gabriel Fauré have composed vocalises that are widely performed and appreciated.

How is singing without lyrics utilized in popular music?

Singing without lyrics is prevalent in various popular music styles. A cappella music, characterized by vocal performances without instrumental accompaniment, often incorporates non-lexical vocables and nonsense syllables to add texture and complexity to vocal arrangements. Doo-wop, a style of rhythm and blues, also frequently employs non-lexical vocables to enhance harmonies and create a distinctive sound.

How has singing without lyrics influenced other musical genres?

The practice of singing without lyrics has had a profound influence on the development of other musical genres. For instance, scat singing and vocal improvisation in jazz have inspired artists in genres like rock and hip hop to incorporate similar techniques into their music. Singing without lyrics has contributed to the evolution and experimentation of various musical styles.

Can singing without lyrics be used in instrumental performances?

Yes, singing without lyrics is not limited to vocal performances alone. Instrumentalists can also engage in singing without lyrics by scatting along with their solos. This practice allows instrumentalists to use their instruments as a means of vocal expression, blurring the line between voice and instrument.

How are non-lexical vocables used in orchestral accompaniment?

Non-lexical forms of vocalization, often in Latin or other non-specific languages, are sometimes employed in orchestral accompaniment to create specific effects. These vocables can add an ominous or grandiose atmosphere to the music, enhancing the overall impact of the orchestral performance.