Finding the perfect alto songs can be challenging, whether preparing for a choir performance, an audition, or a solo recital. Alto singers (typically contraltos and mezzo-sopranos) have a rich, warm vocal range that requires a well-suited repertoire to showcase their unique tone.
This comprehensive guide explores the best alto songs across various genres—classical, musical theatre, jazz, pop, and sacred music—to help you build a versatile repertoire. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned performer, this list will provide ideal song choices for every occasion.
Understanding the Alto Voice
Alto Songs Before diving into song selections, it’s essential to understand the alto vocal range. Altos generally sing between F3 and D5, though some may extend lower or higher. Their voices are characterized by:
- Darker, warmer tones compared to sopranos
- Strong lower register with a rich, resonant quality
- Versatility in blending harmonies (crucial in choirs)
Now, let’s explore the best alto songs for different performance settings.
Best Alto Songs for Choir Performances
Choral music often requires altos to provide harmonic depth and support. Here are some classic and modern choir pieces perfect for alto sections:
1. “Ave Maria” – Franz Biebl
- A stunning sacred piece with lush harmonies, ideal for showcasing alto warmth.
2. “Locus Iste” – Anton Bruckner
- A beautiful Latin motet where altos carry rich, flowing lines.
3. “Sure on This Shining Night” – Morten Lauridsen
- A contemporary choral gem with expressive alto passages.
4. “The Seal Lullaby” – Eric Whitacre
- It features soothing, lyrical alto lines that are perfect for emotive performances.
5. “O Magnum Mysterium” – Tomás Luis de Victoria
- A Renaissance masterpiece with deep, resonant alto parts.
Best Alto Songs for Auditions
When selecting audition songs for altos, choose pieces highlighting vocal control, tone, and emotional expression. Here are top picks for different genres:
Classical & Opera Auditions
6. “Che Farò Senza Euridice” – Gluck (Orfeo ed Euridice)
- A heartfelt aria perfect for showcasing legato and dramatic phrasing.
7. “Voi che sapete” – Mozart (Le Nozze di Figaro)
- A lyrical mezzo-soprano aria that demonstrates agility and expressiveness.
8. “Mon cœur s’ouvre à ta voix” – Saint-Saëns (Samson et Dalila)
- A sensual, flowing aria that highlights lower register richness.
Musical Theater Auditions
9. “I Dreamed a Dream” – Les Misérables
- A powerful ballad that allows altos to showcase emotional depth.
10. “Don’t Rain on My Parade” – Funny Girl
- A bold, belty number for confident, dynamic altos.
11. “When I Look at You” – The Scarlet Pimpernel
- A soaring, lyrical piece perfect for legit mezzo voices.
Jazz & Pop Auditions
12. “Feeling Good” – Nina Simone
- A soulful, sultry jazz standard that highlights alto richness.
13. “All I Ask” – Adele
- A modern ballad with deep emotional resonance.
14. “Hallelujah” – Leonard Cohen (covered by Jeff Buckley, k.d. lang)
- A timeless song that suits warm, expressive altos.
Best Alto Songs for Solo Performances
If you’re preparing for a recital or solo gig, these standout alto songs will captivate your audience:
Classical & Art Songs
15. “Wiegenlied” – Johannes Brahms
- A gentle, lullaby-like piece perfect for intimate performances.
16. “Nacht und Träume” – Franz Schubert
- A dreamy, lyrical art song that highlights vocal warmth.
17. “Lasciatemi Morire” – Monteverdi (Lamento d’Arianna)
- A dramatic early Baroque piece for expressive altos.
Musical Theater & Cabaret
18. “Send in the Clowns” – A Little Night Music
- A poignant, reflective song with subtle emotional depth.
19. “Maybe This Time” – Cabaret
- A powerful, belty anthem for bold alto performers.
20. “As Long as He Needs Me” – Oliver!
- It is a heartfelt ballad that showcases vulnerability and strength.
Jazz, Blues & Pop
21. “At Last” – Etta James
- A timeless jazz classic that highlights rich, velvety tones.
22. “Summertime” – George Gershwin (Porgy and Bess)
- A sultry, flexible standard for expressive interpretation.
23. “Someone Like You” – Adele
- A modern pop ballad that showcases vocal power and emotion.
Tips for Choosing the Right Alto Song
- Know Your Range – Ensure the song sits comfortably in your middle-lower register.
- Match the Style – Pick songs that fit the genre and mood of your performance.
- Showcase Strengths – Highlight your tone, dynamics, and emotional delivery.
- Consider Accompaniment – Some songs work better with piano, guitar, or orchestra.
Final Thoughts
Whether singing in a choir, auditioning for a role, or performing solo, the right alto songs can make all the difference. This list provides a diverse selection of classical, musical theatre, jazz, and pop pieces to help you shine.
Which alto song will you perform next? Explore these options, practice passionately, and let your rich, resonant voice take centre stage!
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5 FAQs on “Alto Songs: The Ultimate List for Choir, Auditions, and Solo Performances”
1. What is the vocal range of an alto singer?
Alto singers typically range between F3 and D5, though some contraltos may extend lower (to E3 or below), and mezzo-sopranos may reach higher (up to F5). Their voices are known for rich, warm tones in the lower register.
2. What are the best alto songs for beginners?
For beginners, consider:
- “Ave Maria” (Biebl) – Simple, flowing lines.
- “Voi che sapete” (Mozart) – Lyrical and manageable.
- “Hallelujah” (Cohen) – Familiar and expressive.
3. How do I choose an alto song for an audition?
Pick a song that:
- It fits your vocal range comfortably (avoid straining).
- Highlights your strengths (e.g., tone, dynamics).
- Matches the style of the audition (classical, MT, jazz).
- For musical theatre, “I Dreamed a Dream” showcases emotion.
4. Can altos sing soprano songs?
Sometimes! Mezzo-sopranos can sing lower soprano repertoire (e.g., “O Mio Babbino Caro”), but true contraltos may struggle with high notes. Transposing down a key can help adapt soprano songs for altos.
5. What’s the difference between contralto and mezzo-soprano songs?
- Contraltos (deepest female voice) excel in low, resonant songs (e.g., “Mon cœur s’ouvre à ta voix”).
- Mezzo-sopranos (lighter than contraltos) suit versatile pieces (e.g., “Quando m’en vo'” or “Don’t Rain on My Parade”).
