The principle of versatility in the technical and interpretative approach of vocal music

Abstract

Two apparently opposed, but often complementary ways in artistic practice open in front of modern singers, at the beginning of their career: specialization and versatility. In this article, I intend to debate the significance of versatility in vocal art and the different ways one can express himself as an artist in a versatile way, in the contemporary world. By accomplishing several musical genres or styles - to taking upon oneself some complementary branches of one’s art, such as pedagogy or musicological research, the modern singer has multiple options to gain from one’s talent and passion. Versatility is the fruit of sustained assimilation of work, research, and study, and of distinguishing oneself in multiple genres or fields. It is a quality that can lead to a high degree of professionalism and artistic excellence, in a different (but not incompatible) manner as compared to choosing a specialization that offers a more restricted framework.