Whether you are a classically-trained singer looking for a new musical experience, or an experienced popular musician wondering if you can also sing opera or choral music, this blog should help you understand the differences in technique and opportunity. Musicians in the 21st century often think they must stay inside a box – whether that be rock, pop, jazz, or classical music – but this simply isn’t true.

If you would like to take singing lessons in Columbia or join the rock band program at Soundcheck Rock Academy, please get in touch.

Can a Classical Singer Join a Rock Band?

Yes, classical singers often successfully join and perform in rock bands. In fact, many popular musicians have classical backgrounds: Katy Perry, Freddie Mercury, and Jason Derulo included. Granted, those would be considered “pop singers,” but the point stands. There’s nothing stopping an opera singer from introducing a gravely texture to their voice (think of Pearl Jam) or using belting technique when appropriate.

The Key Technical Differences

Classical singers will have learned to breathe deeply, avoid all tension, and project their voice as openly as possible. This is different from popular styles, predominantly because popular styles of singing use sound amplification. Opera singers rely on acoustics, and therefore must rely on technique to project their voice.

But with the help of a microphone, you can add breathiness, belting, raspiness, rawness, falsetto, chest voice, and so much more without sacrificing volume.

Musical Fundamentals are Always Worth Learning

Classical singers must learn to read notes, and rock singers generally do not. On the other hand, rock musicians always know chords and progressions, and classical singers are notoriously behind on music theory.

This doesn’t need to be the case!

There’s no reason why a classical singer can’t learn rock theory and vice versa, and both musicians would benefit from the additional knowledge. Many songwriters use their knowledge of classical genres to write rock tunes, and classical musicians can better express older music if they are knowledgeable of modern convention.

SHOULD ROCK MUSICIANS JOIN A CHOIR?

Did you know that Ed Sheeran was a chorister before his popular music breakthrough? Choir music is beautiful, and the experience of singing in a choir is even more powerful than listening to one. Any rock musician who joins a community choral group will be exposed to new music, new performance experiences, and more.

The nice thing about singing in a choir is that all you need is the ability to read notes, and the ability to sing in tune. You don’t have to have flawless technique or the world’s most beautiful voice. You simply need to be able to contribute to the collective.

TAKE SINGING LESSONS AT SOUNDCHECK ROCK ACADEMY

Do you want to take 1-on-1 lessons with a professional singer and experienced teacher? Do you want the opportunity to sing in recitals, join a real rock band with peers, or perform in community events? Contact Soundcheck Rock Academy. Our community of musicians is supportive, fun, and it will make you a better singer and musician in general. You can take piano lessons in Columbia, guitar lessons, and more.