Standard Vocal Classifications & Fundamental Frequency Spans
In equal temperament (A4 = 440 Hz), each semitone is divided into 100 cents. Keeping solo notes within ±5 cents is a practical intonation target, though ensemble singers and string players routinely adjust intervals slightly to eliminate acoustic beating.
| Voice Type | Typical Written Range | Fundamental Frequency Span (Hz) |
|---|---|---|
| Soprano | C4 to C6 | 261.6 Hz – 1046.5 Hz |
| Mezzo-Soprano | A3 to A5 | 220.0 Hz – 880.0 Hz |
| Alto / Contralto | F3 to F5 | 174.6 Hz – 698.5 Hz |
| Tenor | C3 to C5 | 130.8 Hz – 523.3 Hz |
| Baritone | A2 to A4 | 110.0 Hz – 440.0 Hz |
| Bass | E2 to E4 | 82.4 Hz – 329.6 Hz |
Intonation & Pitch Stability Exercises
- Straight-tone hold: Sustain a comfortable vowel for five seconds while keeping the blue pitch contour level and the cent readout within ±5 cents.
- Clean single-note isolation: Mute adjacent strings on acoustic instruments so strong harmonics do not compete with the fundamental pitch.