Classical voice and the microphone: A work in progress

Classical singers are expert at manipulating the interaction of their voice, the instrumentation, the repertoire and the acoustic space their performance takes place in. Classical singing as a technique has historically responded to changes in these performance elements. The microphone is increasingly becoming an integral part of some classical vocal performances. This engagement with technology has implications for vocal technique, vocal aesthetic and performing contexts, and the development of a new collaborations and new skill sets for classical singers. The use of the microphone by classical singers also raises questions about what it is to be a classical singer. Divisions between vocal and musical genres are becoming more permeable as new vocal and operatic works use the microphone as an integral part of the composition and singers are using the microphone to interpret classical vocal repertoire written without the thought of the microphone.