What are the ranges of the various vocal parts?
The standard range of the traditional parts is as follows: (with C4 = middle C, C3=C below middle C, etc.) Soprano: C4 – A5 Alto: G3 – D5 Tenor: C3 – G4 Bass: F2 – D4 Note that the ranges aren’t meant to limit you, as some singers defy all range parameters, these are just the standard that arrangers typically use when playing it “safe.” Also, bass/baritone falsetto goes up to at least A5/C6 territory, and with C2 being a low, but commonly reachable bass note. Four octaves are certainly possible for a fair number of basses or baritones. Note for vocalists: If you’re wondering what voice part you are, realize that range is only part of the equation. The “center” or “sweet part” of your range may tell you more than a laundry list of the notes you can hit. For example, many male a cappella vocalists are tenors, even though they can sing all of the requisite bass notes (or even sing lower). Also, some popular musical styles and techniques have challenged these traditional ranges as many sin
