Many contemporary singers without formal vocal training may not have encountered the term Fach. In classical music, the Fach system categorises singers according to vocal range, weight, colour, and agility. Broadly speaking, men are basses, baritones, or tenors, while women are mezzos, altos, or sopranos. Some voices sit between these types, but the German Fach system offers a valuable framework for identifying where a singer’s strengths naturally lie and for developing appropriate repertoire.

A trusted teacher or vocal coach can help determine your Fach through simple vocal exercises. The first step is identifying your tessitura — the area of your range in which you can sing with ease, consistency, and freedom. You will then consider the weight of your voice: is it light and agile, like a light lyric voice, or does it carry a fuller, more dramatic quality?

A light lyric soprano, for example, may gravitate towards roles such as Zerlina’s “Vedrai, carino” from Mozart’s Don Giovanni or “O mio babbino caro” from Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi,, both of which suit lighter, flexible instruments. Timbre, or vocal color, is another factor that helps determine the most suitable repertoire.

Once your Fach is clearly understood, choosing repertoire becomes far simpler and far safer. The right repertoire supports vocal health, artistic development, and long-term stamina, while unsuitable roles can lead to strain or technical habits that are difficult to undo.

Remember that voices grow and shift over time. Regular reassessment, curiosity, and honest guidance will help ensure you select repertoire that showcases your strengths while allowing your instrument to develop naturally and sustainably.

A Memorable India Concert and Workshop Series
It was a pleasure to return to the stage for my first major concert at the NCPA this November. I’m immensely grateful to the Bombay Chamber Orchestra for the opportunity to join them in celebrating Strauss at 200. No visit to India ever feels complete without connecting with the local music community, and this trip was no exception.
My vocal workshops in Mumbai and Goa drew tremendous interest, and it was a joy to meet so many emerging singers, hear their stories, and share perspectives on vocal technique and artistic growth. I’m deeply thankful for the warmth, enthusiasm, and curiosity everyone brought to these sessions.

A Singer is A Vocal Storyteller
Learn why it’s important to use your voice to tell a story rather than just singing the words. The blog highlights the various nuances in storytelling for singers and how one relates a story using words and music.

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