Choosing the Best Musical Theatre Songs for Contraltos

Musical theatre offers a treasure trove of opportunities for singers to showcase their unique vocal talents. For contraltos, whose deep and rich voices add a distinctive touch to any performance, selecting the right songs can be both an exciting and challenging task.

Finding pieces that not only fit the vocal range but also highlight individual strengths is crucial. The choice will impact auditions, performances, and personal growth as an artist.

Identifying Your Vocal Range

Understanding your vocal range is a foundational step in selecting the perfect musical theatre songs. For contraltos, this means recognizing the unique qualities that set their voices apart. Typically, a contralto’s range extends from the F below middle C to the second G above middle C, though individual ranges can vary. This depth and richness provide a distinct sound that can be both powerful and emotive.

To accurately identify your range, it’s beneficial to work with a vocal coach or use reliable tools like the Sing Sharp app, which can help map out your vocal capabilities. These resources can guide you through exercises that pinpoint your lowest and highest comfortable notes. Knowing these boundaries allows you to choose songs that not only fit within your range but also showcase your voice’s best qualities.

Exploring your tessitura, or the range in which your voice feels most comfortable and sounds the best, is equally important. This is where your voice can perform with ease and sustain notes without strain. For contraltos, this often means focusing on the lower and middle parts of their range, where their voice can resonate fully and expressively.

Classic Contralto Roles

The world of musical theatre is filled with memorable roles tailor-made for contraltos, each offering a unique opportunity to shine. One of the most iconic roles is that of The Witch in Stephen Sondheim’s “Into the Woods.” This character demands a voice that can convey both power and nuance, making it an ideal fit for contraltos. With songs like “Last Midnight,” The Witch allows performers to explore a wide emotional range, from wrath and vengeance to sorrow and reflection.

Another exemplary role is that of Matron “Mama” Morton in “Chicago.” Known for her commanding presence and deep, soulful voice, Mama Morton brings a sense of authority and charisma. The song “When You’re Good to Mama” is a standout piece, providing a platform for contraltos to demonstrate their vocal prowess and stage dominance. The character’s blend of humor and gravitas makes her a beloved figure in the musical theatre canon.

Outside of these well-known characters, there are roles like Ruth in “The Pirates of Penzance” by Gilbert and Sullivan, which showcase a contralto’s ability to handle both comedic and dramatic elements. Ruth’s songs require a voice that can navigate complex melodies while maintaining clarity and depth, making this role a rewarding challenge for any contralto.

Hidden Gems

For contraltos seeking to break away from the more mainstream repertoire, there are numerous hidden gems that offer unique opportunities to showcase their vocal abilities. One such piece is “I Dreamed a Dance” from “Next to Normal.” This hauntingly beautiful song provides a platform for contraltos to explore deep emotional landscapes, blending delicate phrasing with powerful vocal moments. The character’s journey through the song allows for a nuanced performance that can leave a lasting impression on audiences.

Another lesser-known but compelling song is “Low Down” from “Holler If Ya Hear Me,” a musical inspired by the lyrics of Tupac Shakur. This piece merges the raw energy of hip-hop with the soulful depth of a contralto voice, creating a distinct and memorable performance. The song’s rhythm and blues influence allows the singer to experiment with different vocal textures and stylistic choices, making it an exciting addition to any repertoire.

Exploring musical theatre beyond the typical choices can also lead to surprising finds like “The Last Song” from Jason Robert Brown’s “Songs for a New World.” This song requires a contralto to navigate a complex emotional narrative, showcasing both vulnerability and strength. The intricate composition offers opportunities for vocal agility and expressive interpretation, making it a standout piece for auditions or performances.

Modern Contralto Hits

Modern musical theatre has ushered in a wave of fresh, exciting roles for contraltos, expanding the landscape with characters that are both complex and contemporary. A prime example is the character of Heidi Hansen in “Dear Evan Hansen.” Her solo “So Big/So Small” is a deeply emotional piece that requires a rich, resonant voice to convey the profound themes of love and loss. This song allows contraltos to connect with audiences on a personal level, showcasing their ability to deliver heartfelt, stirring performances.

In “Waitress,” the character of Becky offers another modern contralto hit with the song “I Didn’t Plan It.” This number is vibrant and full of life, demanding a voice that can carry its soulful, bluesy undertones. Becky’s character is both sassy and sincere, providing a dynamic role that lets contraltos exhibit their versatility. The song’s powerful lyrics and rhythmic complexities make it a standout piece that can captivate audiences and judges alike.

Moving to a more whimsical yet equally demanding role, Ursula in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” brings a modern twist to the contralto repertoire. Her signature song, “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” is a tour de force that combines theatrical flair with vocal strength. Ursula’s larger-than-life personality and dark humor offer contraltos a chance to delve into character work while delivering a vocally challenging performance.

Character-Driven Choices

Embodying a character fully involves selecting songs that align with their narrative arc and emotional depth. For contraltos, this often means choosing pieces that highlight their ability to convey complex emotions through their unique vocal timbre.

One compelling example is Mrs. Lovett from “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.” Her song “By the Sea” allows singers to explore a mix of dark humor and romantic longing, offering a multifaceted performance opportunity. The role’s blend of wit and vulnerability provides contraltos with the chance to demonstrate both their acting and singing prowess.

Similarly, the character of Madame Morrible in “Wicked” offers contraltos a role steeped in intrigue and authority. Though not as musically demanding as some roles, her presence and the depth of her character add significant layers to the performance. Choosing songs that reflect these traits can help performers inhabit their roles more fully, making their portrayals more believable and compelling.

Balancing Technique and Emotion

A successful performance hinges on the delicate balance between technical skill and emotional expression. For contraltos, mastering this balance can elevate their performances, making them both technically sound and deeply moving.

Focusing on technical precision is essential. Proper breath control, pitch accuracy, and dynamic range are all critical elements. Engaging in regular vocal exercises and seeking feedback from experienced vocal coaches can help fine-tune these aspects. Tools like the VocalizeU app offer tailored exercises to enhance vocal technique, ensuring that the singer can tackle even the most challenging pieces with confidence.

Equally important is the ability to convey emotion through song. This involves more than just hitting the right notes; it’s about connecting with the character and the audience. Techniques such as method acting can be beneficial, allowing performers to delve deeply into their character’s psyche. By understanding the motivations and emotions behind each song, contraltos can deliver performances that resonate on a profound level.