Multiplicity of Belting: Sonic Variety in Musical Theater

Lisa Popeil

If 'belting' can be defined as a speech-like or yell-like sound used in singing, then this production can be further narrowed into sub-styles. In this presentation, these sub-styles will be examined using detailed description, sound samples and frequency analysis. Though belting production is used in a number of styles including pop, rock, country, R&B and jazz, this presentation will show how these sub-styles are currently heard in contemporary musical theater. These variations of belting include the categories of 'nasal belt', brassy belt', 'twangy belt', 'speech-like belt' and 'heavy belt'. Brassy belt is here defined as a speech-like or yell-like sound with both nasality and ring characteristics but with dominant nasality. Twangy belt is similar, with both nasality and ring but ring-dominant.
'Speech-like belt' has more neutral or balanced timbral characteristics . 'Heavy belt' involves more contraction of the vocalis and a longer closed phase.
Using sound samples from available recordings of musical theater performers and five audio samples from one subject, the purpose of this presentation is to introduce a more precise vocabulary to singers and trainers of belting in a musical theater context.