What Are Overtones?
Overtones are what give sound its colour (timbre), and make up every sound we hear. They are vibrations which correspond to natural laws, and contain the codes that govern all musical instruments, and all spoken or sung words.
We hear overtones all day, and every day, in our lives, yet most of us are unaware they exist. If you have not ‘heard’ overtones before, then you can listen to a little sample of overtone singing by clicking here.
What Is Overtone Singing?
Overtone singing is a mesmerising technique where one person is able to sing two or more notes simultaneously. The first note, which is known as the fundamental, carries all the other individual notes, which are known as the overtones.
When heard together we do not know they are there, as we only perceive one note. But, when the sound is split up, then overtones can be heard as pure separate tones, in perfect harmony with each other. They make up the overtone series.
Why Are Overtones So Special?
Overtones embellish the sound of all musical instruments, from the human voice, to the violin and trumpet. They are the secret to the beauty of all sounds. Having knowledge of the overtone series helps people to understand better how instruments work, and how to get more beauty out of the sounds we produce.
The overtone series is to sound what rainbows are to light. When we first hear overtones, we intuitively know they hold the key to something special and meaningful. The effect of hearing, playing and singing overtones creates a profound sense of well-being and balance physiologically, emotionally and mentally. They touch and move us deeply.
Who Can Master Overtones?
Anyone can learn to play or sing overtones. Whether you are a recreational or a professional musical artist, knowledge and accentuation of the overtone series will help brighten your sound. The Overtone Singing Study Guide, our workshops and courses are designed to help you take your learning and your experience as far as you like, depending upon your existing skills. Please visit our online store to see what we have on offer.