Musical theatre has been a beloved art form for centuries, with its ability to captivate audiences through storytelling, music, and dance. One of the most important elements of a successful musical theatre performance is the songs, which can convey emotion, drive the plot forward, and showcase the talents of the performers. For tenors, the songs they sing are often powerful, emotional, and showcase their vocal range and abilities. In this article, we will explore some of the most iconic and beloved musical theatre songs for tenors, along with interesting details about each.
1. “Bring Him Home” from Les Misérables (1985)
“Bring Him Home” is a stunning ballad from the musical Les Misérables, written by Claude-Michel Schönberg. The song is sung by the character Jean Valjean as he prays for the safety and well-being of his adopted daughter’s love interest, Marius. The song is a powerful showcase for a tenor’s vocal abilities, with a soaring melody and emotional lyrics that tug at the heartstrings.
2. “Anthem” from Chess (1984)
“Anthem” is a powerful and emotional song from the musical Chess, written by Tim Rice, Benny Andersson, and Björn Ulvaeus. The song is sung by the character Anatoly, a Russian chess grandmaster, as he grapples with his conflicting feelings about his homeland and his love for a woman from a rival country. The song features a dramatic and powerful melody that allows a tenor to showcase both their vocal range and emotional depth.
3. “Being Alive” from Company (1970)
“Being Alive” is a poignant and introspective song from the musical Company, written by Stephen Sondheim. The song is sung by the character Bobby as he reflects on the importance of relationships and connection in life. The song features a beautiful and complex melody that allows a tenor to showcase their vocal abilities and emotional depth.
4. “Music of the Night” from The Phantom of the Opera (1986)
“Music of the Night” is a haunting and romantic song from the musical The Phantom of the Opera, written by Andrew Lloyd Webber. The song is sung by the character Phantom as he seduces Christine with his music and voice. The song features a lush and dramatic melody that allows a tenor to showcase their vocal abilities and range.
5. “Corner of the Sky” from Pippin (1972)
“Corner of the Sky” is an uplifting and optimistic song from the musical Pippin, written by Stephen Schwartz. The song is sung by the character Pippin as he dreams of finding his place in the world and achieving greatness. The song features a catchy and energetic melody that allows a tenor to showcase their vocal abilities and charisma.
6. “If I Can’t Love Her” from Beauty and the Beast (1994)
“If I Can’t Love Her” is a powerful and emotional song from the musical Beauty and the Beast, written by Alan Menken and Tim Rice. The song is sung by the character Beast as he struggles with his feelings for Belle and his own self-worth. The song features a dramatic and heartfelt melody that allows a tenor to showcase their vocal abilities and emotional depth.
7. “Love Changes Everything” from Aspects of Love (1989)
“Love Changes Everything” is a beautiful and romantic song from the musical Aspects of Love, written by Andrew Lloyd Webber. The song is sung by the character Alex as he reflects on the transformative power of love in his life. The song features a lush and emotional melody that allows a tenor to showcase their vocal abilities and range.
8. “Gethsemane (I Only Want to Say)” from Jesus Christ Superstar (1970)
“Gethsemane (I Only Want to Say)” is a dramatic and powerful song from the musical Jesus Christ Superstar, written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. The song is sung by the character Jesus as he grapples with his impending crucifixion and the weight of his destiny. The song features a soaring and emotional melody that allows a tenor to showcase their vocal abilities and range.
9. “Why God Why?” from Miss Saigon (1989)
“Why God Why?” is a heartbreaking and emotional song from the musical Miss Saigon, written by Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil. The song is sung by the character Chris as he laments the futility of war and the loss of his love, Kim. The song features a raw and emotional melody that allows a tenor to showcase their vocal abilities and vulnerability.
In addition to these iconic musical theatre songs for tenors, there are countless other songs that showcase the talents and abilities of tenor singers. Whether performing in a classic musical or a contemporary production, tenors have the opportunity to shine on stage with their powerful vocals and emotional performances.
Common Questions:
1. What is a tenor in musical theatre?
A tenor is a male singer with a high vocal range, typically singing in the higher register.
2. What are some common characteristics of tenor songs in musical theatre?
Tenor songs in musical theatre often feature powerful melodies, emotional lyrics, and opportunities for vocal showcase.
3. What are some popular musicals that feature tenor roles?
Some popular musicals that feature tenor roles include Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, and Jesus Christ Superstar.
4. How can a tenor singer improve their vocal range and abilities?
A tenor singer can improve their vocal range and abilities through vocal exercises, proper technique, and consistent practice.
5. What are some tips for performing tenor songs in musical theatre?
Some tips for performing tenor songs in musical theatre include connecting emotionally to the lyrics, maintaining proper technique, and engaging with the audience.
6. What are some famous tenor singers in musical theatre?
Some famous tenor singers in musical theatre include Michael Ball, Ramin Karimloo, and Alfie Boe.
7. What are some key attributes that make a successful tenor singer in musical theatre?
Some key attributes that make a successful tenor singer in musical theatre include a strong vocal range, emotional depth, and stage presence.
8. How can a tenor singer prepare for an audition in musical theatre?
A tenor singer can prepare for an audition in musical theatre by choosing appropriate songs, practicing with accompaniment, and rehearsing with emotion and passion.
9. What are some common vocal challenges for tenor singers in musical theatre?
Some common vocal challenges for tenor singers in musical theatre include hitting high notes, maintaining vocal stamina, and conveying emotion through song.
10. What are some important vocal techniques for tenor singers in musical theatre?
Some important vocal techniques for tenor singers in musical theatre include proper breathing, vocal exercises, and maintaining vocal health.
11. How can a tenor singer build their repertoire for musical theatre?
A tenor singer can build their repertoire for musical theatre by learning a variety of songs from different musicals, genres, and time periods.
12. How can a tenor singer find opportunities to perform in musical theatre?
A tenor singer can find opportunities to perform in musical theatre through auditions, casting calls, community theatre productions, and networking with industry professionals.
13. What are some common misconceptions about tenor singers in musical theatre?
Some common misconceptions about tenor singers in musical theatre include that they are limited to certain types of roles or songs, or that they are not as versatile as other vocal types.
14. How can a tenor singer continue to grow and develop their skills in musical theatre?
A tenor singer can continue to grow and develop their skills in musical theatre by taking voice lessons, studying with a vocal coach, and participating in workshops and masterclasses.
15. What are some important considerations for choosing repertoire for a tenor singer in musical theatre?
Some important considerations for choosing repertoire for a tenor singer in musical theatre include vocal range, emotional connection to the material, and suitability for the singer’s voice and style.
16. How can a tenor singer maintain vocal health and prevent vocal fatigue in musical theatre?
A tenor singer can maintain vocal health and prevent vocal fatigue in musical theatre by staying hydrated, warming up and cooling down properly, and avoiding vocal strain.
17. What are some key elements of a successful performance for a tenor singer in musical theatre?
Some key elements of a successful performance for a tenor singer in musical theatre include strong vocal technique, emotional connection to the material, and engaging with the audience.
In conclusion, musical theatre offers a wealth of opportunities for tenor singers to showcase their talents and abilities. From powerful ballads to energetic anthems, there are countless songs that allow tenors to shine on stage with their vocal range and emotional depth. By choosing appropriate repertoire, honing their vocal skills, and connecting emotionally to the material, tenors can deliver memorable and impactful performances that resonate with audiences. Whether performing in a classic musical or a contemporary production, tenor singers have the opportunity to make a lasting impression on stage and leave a lasting legacy in the world of musical theatre in the year 2025.