Chest Voice

Term from Choir Direction industry explained for recruiters

Chest voice is a natural way of singing that most people use in everyday speaking. It's called "chest voice" because singers can feel vibrations in their chest when using this technique. When reviewing resumes for choir directors or vocal teachers, this term shows that the candidate understands basic vocal techniques. It's one of the main singing methods, alongside head voice and mixed voice. Think of it like the foundation of singing - it's the strong, full sound you hear in most popular music and traditional choral pieces.

Examples in Resumes

Trained 30-member youth choir in proper Chest Voice technique and breathing exercises

Conducted workshops focusing on transitioning between Chest Voice and head voice

Developed curriculum for beginning singers emphasizing proper Chest Voice development

Typical job title: "Vocal Instructors"

Also try searching for:

Choir Director Vocal Coach Voice Teacher Singing Instructor Music Educator Choral Conductor Vocal Music Director

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle teaching chest voice to a large choir with mixed experience levels?

Expected Answer: A senior choir director should discuss strategies for group vocal training, assessment methods for different voice types, and techniques for helping singers maintain healthy chest voice while blending with the group.

Q: What's your approach to helping singers transition smoothly between chest voice and head voice?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of various exercises and techniques for bridging the gap between registers, understanding of common challenges, and ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you identify and correct improper chest voice technique?

Expected Answer: Should explain common issues like strain or tension, demonstrate understanding of proper breathing techniques, and share specific exercises for improvement.

Q: What exercises do you use to develop chest voice strength?

Expected Answer: Should provide examples of warm-up exercises, discuss the importance of proper breath support, and explain how to gradually build vocal strength safely.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain what chest voice is and how it feels?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain chest voice in simple terms, describe the physical sensation, and demonstrate the difference between chest voice and head voice.

Q: What are the basic warm-up exercises you use for chest voice?

Expected Answer: Should know fundamental vocal warm-ups, understand the importance of proper breathing, and demonstrate basic exercises suitable for beginners.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of vocal techniques
  • Simple warm-up exercises
  • Fundamental breathing exercises
  • Basic choir conducting patterns

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced vocal exercise design
  • Group vocal training techniques
  • Voice type assessment
  • Repertoire selection

Senior (5+ years)

  • Advanced vocal pedagogy
  • Choir program development
  • Performance preparation
  • Vocal health maintenance

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to demonstrate different vocal registers
  • Lack of knowledge about vocal health and safety
  • No experience with group vocal training
  • Poor understanding of breathing techniques