Do not begin at the extremes
A male voice first settles in the comfortable middle. Range expands after the onset and vowel are stable.
- Begin with a short descending phrase in the speaking part of the range.
- Keep one vowel and add a small upward interval.
- Check the transition without increasing volume with pitch.
Male voices do not share one starting command
Tenor, baritone and bass can sing the same pattern, but starting pitch and range must fit the actual section. A tenor does not need a low note only because a bass is standing nearby.
Middle range
Begin where the singer can speak and sing without a large change of setup. A short phrase checks onset, vowel and breath movement.
Moving upward
Do not add volume automatically with pitch. Keep the vowel clear and the phrase moving. Return to a comfortable tessitura when the sound becomes heavy.
Moving downward
Low notes should not be obtained through pressure. They remain part of the line, not a separate effect.
Transfer to the part
Sing the difficult passage on one vowel, restore the text and join it with the bass or upper harmonic support.