Lesson 2

In Lesson 2 we explore and practice controlling the natural break in our voice. For singers, the break in the voice is something to be masked and smoothed over. Often you can hear singers use the break for emotional effect when they emphasize the break to indicate pain or struggle or just because its cool. In yodeling we want to control, emphasize and use it to reach for the sky.

The Natural

When singing at the top end of your Chest Voice, or close to it, your voice will naturally break to the VI (6th) note in the scale. For example, starting on a C the voice will naturally break to the A in the C scale. For me the break is around the E and F so using the C and A makes sense.

Find your own natural voice break and use a key that works best for you.

2a.

Featured Personality

Peter Lim (Founder of World Yodel Day)

South Korea

Who knew Seoul, South Korea was a hot spot for yodeling? Peter Lim is leading the charge with the founding of World Yodel Day. Since 2013, he has been sending out a stamp 4 times a year to yodelers around the world. The stamp, designed by Bart Plantenga, honors World Yodel Day. Get your friends together for this year's World Yodel Day on August 8 and celebrate with yodelers around the world.

2b.

* This measure should be practiced slowly at first. Your voice should break naturally back down to the B in the Chest Voice ending on the C. Use the vowel "i" pronounced "eye" for B and then end on the C with "ho".

2c.

Let's put the natural break together with a traditional yodel figure. Use the foundation notes to prepare for the jump to your falsetto. You have practiced the jump to the 6th (A) above. Be confident and work on the clarity of the notes.

Breath support is extremely important so breath between every 4 measures as a recommendation.

YodelBurst

With so much strife in the world, the need for joy and laughter is substantial. If yodeling could find its way into everyday life and people could randomly burst out in wonderful yodels, things might change.

This yodel uses a Swiss-like single note repetition. Start slow and increase speed. Find a comfortable key just under your break to falsetto.

Have this one ready to go at the coffee shop and try this YodelBurst. You'll bring a smile to everyone's face....guaranteed.