Head Voice
Head voice is a singing technique where the voice resonates primarily in the head area, producing a lighter, higher-pitched sound compared to chest voice. It's a fundamental concept in choir direction and vocal music. When reviewing resumes for choir directors or vocal teachers, this term indicates experience with teaching proper vocal techniques. Similar terms include "upper register" or "high register." Understanding head voice is crucial for anyone working with singers, as it's one of the basic ways people produce different vocal sounds, alongside chest voice and mixed voice.
Examples in Resumes
Trained 30-member choir in proper Head Voice technique for Renaissance repertoire
Developed workshop series focusing on transitioning between chest and Head Voice
Successfully coached students in Head Voice development for musical theater performances
Typical job title: "Choir Directors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Choir Directors
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you approach teaching head voice technique to a large choir with mixed experience levels?
Expected Answer: A senior choir director should discuss strategies for group vocal training, demonstrate knowledge of different teaching methods for various skill levels, and explain how to identify and address common challenges in head voice development across a group.
Q: What methods do you use to help singers transition smoothly between chest voice and head voice?
Expected Answer: Should explain practical exercises for developing the middle voice/mix, demonstrate understanding of vocal bridge management, and discuss how to help singers avoid strain or breaks in their voice.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you identify when a singer is incorrectly using their head voice?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe common signs of incorrect head voice usage, such as tension, strain, or poor tone quality, and explain basic corrective techniques.
Q: What exercises do you use to develop head voice in beginning singers?
Expected Answer: Should provide examples of simple warm-up exercises, describe how to introduce the concept of head voice to newcomers, and explain basic vocal health considerations.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is head voice and why is it important in choral singing?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic concept of head voice, its role in achieving higher notes, and its importance in different types of choral music.
Q: How do you warm up a choir's head voice safely?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic vocal warm-up exercises and understanding of the importance of gradual warm-up to protect voices.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of vocal registers
- Simple warm-up exercises
- Fundamental choir direction techniques
- Basic vocal health awareness
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced vocal technique instruction
- Repertoire selection for different voice types
- Group vocal training methods
- Vocal problem diagnosis and solution
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced pedagogical methods
- Complex arrangement adaptation for different voice types
- Master class instruction capability
- Vocal rehabilitation expertise
Red Flags to Watch For
- No formal vocal training or education
- Lack of understanding of vocal health and safety
- Unable to demonstrate different vocal registers
- No experience conducting or leading group singing
Related Terms
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