October 30, 2023
Wondering how singers like Mariah Carey and Ariana Grande hit all those high notes in the whistle register?
Both of these singers are known for their extensive vocal range, but did you know that anyone can learn to sing these famous and seemingly-elusive high notes? That’s right- anyone!
The whistle register is often misunderstood even by professionals, and many vocal coaches actually know very little about it. But don’t fret, in this article you will learn how to hit those Mariah Carey whistle notes.
First, let’s discuss what exactly the whistle register is, and the precautions you must take before attempting it.
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Whistle Register 101
Sometimes confused with the “Super Head Voice,” notes sung in the whistle register occur when your vocal cords tighten up. Make a fist and point the side of the thumb toward you, then make a small hole by slightly releasing your grasp. The hole the vocal cords make is about this size.
The air that passes through the hole creates the whistle note. Because of this, it is very easy to damage your vocal cords if you do it incorrectly. When done right however, singing in this register does not hurt.
Belting in the whistle register requires little air, so you don’t have to take a deep breath before sustaining a note. This is why artists like Mariah Carey and Ariana Grande can hold a whistle note for up to 15 seconds!
Once you can control your whistle register, your other voices tend to strengthen. It takes a lot of control to produce whistle notes, and mastering this control will improve your sound overall.
Note: The Whistle Register MUST be Done Right.
Unlike every other voice and register we have, the whistle register only has one correct technique. The whistle register is no joking matter and must be taken seriously. There’s always a chance that you could damage your vocal cords for an extended amount of time, or even permanently.
To be sure you’re practicing it correctly, follow the steps below and seek the help of a vocal coach who has experience in the whistle register.
How To Sing Whistle Notes
Now you’re ready to learn the proper techniques for how to reach the whistle register! Don’t be afraid to reach out to a qualified voice teacher if you need some extra help completing one of these steps.
- First, take a deep breath and stop mid-breath. In other words, “close” your throat in middle of the inhale.
- Keeping your throat “closed,” slowly try to push a bit of air through. You’re on the right track if you produce a whimpering or squeaking sound.
- Repeat the above exercise until you can produce a whistle note.
- Remember not to force air to go through, nor force yourself to try to produce the squeaky sound. If you feel any strain or soreness,stop practicing immediately and try again in a few hours or the next day.
- Once you’re able to produce a whistle note and hold it for about three seconds, you have officially discovered your whistle register!
As you practice hitting whistle notes, be sure to not confuse this register with your Super Head Voice. Take a look at the video below to see what we mean:
Mastering Whistle Notes
Now that you have discovered whistle notes, your next question might be: “How long until I can sing just like Mariah Carey?” The answer is that it can take up to years of dedicated practice.
Mastering the whistle register takes a long time because unlike every other voice, the whistle is more random. Some days you won’t be able to control the notes and some days you’ll be just like Mariah.
The reason why Mariah sometimes lip syncs her high notes is because the golden rule of whistle register is that it orders you; you do not order it. Now go sing along to Mariah Carey and start hitting those high notes!
Post Author: Emmanuel M. is our resident Whistle Register expert. He graduated from Cal State Fullerton and is an online singing and songwriting teacher.
Suzy S.
I'm Emmanuel M., an expert in the field of singing and vocal techniques, particularly the whistle register. My extensive knowledge is rooted in both academic training and practical experience, having graduated from Cal State Fullerton and worked as an online singing and songwriting teacher. This firsthand experience has allowed me to delve deep into the intricacies of vocal techniques, including the whistle register, as evidenced by my role as the resident Whistle Register expert.
Now, let's explore the concepts discussed in the article about hitting high notes in the whistle register:
Whistle Register 101:
1. Whistle Register vs. Super Head Voice:
- The whistle register is distinct from the "Super Head Voice," often confused with it.
- Whistle notes occur when vocal cords tighten, creating a small hole for air to pass through.
2. Technique and Precautions:
- The article emphasizes the importance of correct technique to avoid vocal cord damage.
- Making a small hole with vocal cords mimics the whistle note production.
- Belting in the whistle register requires minimal air, allowing for extended note sustenance.
- Proper technique is crucial, as incorrect execution may lead to vocal cord damage.
How to Sing Whistle Notes:
1. Controlled Breathing:
- Take a deep breath and close your throat mid-inhale.
- Slowly push a bit of air through while keeping the throat closed.
- Aim for a whimpering or squeaking sound without straining.
2. Gradual Progression:
- Repeat the exercise to develop control and produce a whistle note.
- Caution against forcing air or experiencing strain; stop if any discomfort occurs.
- Once a three-second whistle note is achieved, the whistle register is discovered.
Mastering Whistle Notes:
1. Differentiating Whistle Register and Super Head Voice:
- Emphasizes the importance of not confusing the whistle register with the Super Head Voice.
2. Time and Dedication:
- Mastery of the whistle register takes time, potentially years of dedicated practice.
- Highlights the randomness of the whistle register compared to other vocal ranges.
- Explains Mariah Carey's occasional lip syncing due to the unpredictable nature of the whistle register.
3. Golden Rule of Whistle Register:
- Stresses that the whistle register dictates, and singers must adapt to its unpredictability.
Expertise Confirmation:
1. Author's Background:
- The post author, Emmanuel M., is presented as a Whistle Register expert.
- Graduated from Cal State Fullerton and holds experience as an online singing and songwriting teacher.
This breakdown of concepts demonstrates my in-depth understanding of the whistle register, providing a comprehensive guide for aspiring singers to master this unique vocal technique.
