1. Pitch Range:
- Soprano: The soprano voice is the highest female voice and has a range that typically spans from middle C (C4) to the C two octaves above (C6). Some operatic sopranos may extend even higher.
- Alto: The alto voice is the lower female voice and usually falls between the G below middle C (G3) and the F above middle C (F5).
2. Tone Quality:
- Soprano: Sopranos generally have a bright, clear, and agile vocal tone. They're often known for their ability to sing high notes with ease and expressiveness.
- Alto: Altos possess a warmer, richer, and more mellow timbre compared to sopranos. Their voices tend to be fuller and more resonant in the lower registers.
3. Vocal Roles:
- Soprano: In choral music, sopranos typically handle the highest harmony part. They often carry melodies and are featured as soloists in various musical compositions.
- Alto: Altos, on the other hand, typically sing the second highest vocal line in a chorus. Their parts provide harmonic support to the soprano melodies.
4. Vocal Registration:
- Soprano: Sopranos predominantly sing in the higher head voice register, which gives them their bright and piercing sound.
- Alto: While altos also use their head voice for higher notes, they rely more heavily on their lower chest voice register, resulting in a fuller, warmer vocal timbre.
5. Popular Singers:
- Soprano: Some well-known soprano singers include Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, and Celine Dion.
- Alto: Prominent alto singers include Cher, Adele, and Florence Welch.
6. Musical Genres:
- Soprano: Soprano voices are found in a wide range of musical genres, from classical opera and art songs to pop, rock, and musical theater.
- Alto: Altos are featured prominently in jazz, blues, folk, and gospel music. They also play important roles in classical choral works.
Remember, these are general characteristics, and there can be individual variations in voice types. Sometimes, voices may have characteristics that fall between soprano and alto, making them categorized as mezzo-sopranos or contraltos. If you're interested in determining your vocal range and type, it's a good idea to consult with a vocal coach or musician who can assess your voice and provide accurate guidance.