What Is Scat Singing

Scat singing is a technique used by singers in vocal jazz music. Scat is a form of vocal improvisation that consists of nonsense syllables or no words at all. It requires the singer to improvise melodies and syllables from the top of their head, this is a very difficult technique to master as it uses the voice as an instrument rather than using it to speak. Though scat singing is improvised, the melodies are usually based around common musical themes, such as scales, arpeggios, or the chorus of a different song. Scat doesn’t have to be used independently; it can be incorporated into a normal lyrical song, sort of like a solo section. Sometimes a scat section follows a certain predetermined pattern, following patterns in tempo, melody, or rhythm. It could be compared to an episode of Tom and Jerry because you always know generally what will happen: Tom will try and catch Jerry, but Jerry turns it around and hurts Tom. It’s always slightly different, but it follows the same general pattern. …show more content…
Variants in the syllables can be pitch, attack on the syllable, the following vowel after the attack, and the ending of the syllable, either ending with a tongue articulation or leaving it open ended. All of these variables can be manipulated to produce different effects in the sound. Differences can be used to imitate a certain instrument or style of playing. Different artists typically use different articulations depending on the style of ensemble accompanying them. Harder attacks with various endings were used commonly with swing-style big bands, while in a more upbeat funk type band one might use softer attacks with an open vowel