HELP! I'm Off-Pitch!

Q. I always thought I had ok pitch. Recently, however, I did a live recording with my band and when I heard the playback I noticed MANY places where I was off pitch. What’s going on here?

A. Many singers complain of being a little “pitchy”. This might mean not quite making the pitch and winding up a little flat (under the pitch) or overshooting the pitch and sounding sharp (above the pitch). This has to do with Intonation (def. “production of tones that are accurate in pitch”, “degree of adherence to correct pitch.”)

When a singer's intonation is out, he may be very close to the correct pitch but he’s not spot on. This type of out-intonation can be caused by several factors, including: forcing too much air when singing, tongue tension, neck and throat muscle tension and use of force to create volume. Proper vocal technique will handle this type of out-intonation.

Since you mention that you noticed this situation occurring when you were singing with your band, it begs the question, could you hear yourself? Even with excellent vocal technique, a singer who cannot hear himself over the band may very likely go off pitch. Good floor monitors, or better yet, in-ear monitors make a world of difference. Not only does hearing yourself allow you to stay on pitch, it is voice saving as well. A singer who cannot hear himself is more likely to “over-sing” and cause vocal fatigue. I recognize that most musicians are on a budget, but it’s worth it to invest in good monitors. I’m sure your guitarist spent a pretty penny on that Marshall stack that’s blowing your head off!

If you find that you are not just a little “pitchy” but are in fact way off pitch, it may very well be that you are in need of ear-training. There are very simple and effective exercises that can train you to hear exact melodic intervals, as well as to hear how the melody fits within the harmonic structure (the chords) of the song. An experienced vocal coach can tell the difference between out-intonation caused by improper technique, and a need for ear training. Do yourself the best favor you can and seek a professional opinion.

Keep on rockin!