A Masterclass in Vocal Pop
"Symphony" by Clean Bandit, featuring Zara Larsson, is one of the definitive pop tracks of the late 2010s. It blends classical orchestral elements with modern electronic beats, requiring a vocalist who can bridge the gap between emotive storytelling and high-energy power. The song topped charts globally, largely due to Larsson's impeccable vocal delivery.
To sing this well, you need more than just power. You need control. The track demands a seamless transition from breathy, intimate verses to full-voiced, soaring choruses. Let's break down exactly how to tackle it.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Airflow
Many singers run out of breath during the chorus lines like "I just wanna be part of your symphony." Our analysis suggests taking a deep, low diaphragmatic breath before "I just wanna" to sustain the phrase with consistent pressure.
Phase 1: The Verses (0:00 - 0:45)
The song begins with "I've been hearing symphonies." This section sits in a comfortable mid-range for sopranos and mezzos (around G3-C4). The key here is texture. Avoid hitting these notes too hard.
The Technique: Use a breathy tone (add air to the voice) to convey vulnerability. Focus on crisp diction on words like "symphonies" and "melody" to match the staccato feel of the orchestral strings in the background.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus Climb
As the beat builds, so should your intensity. On the line "And now your song is on repeat," you need to begin shedding the breathiness and bringing in more cord closure. This creates a brighter sound that cuts through the building mix.
Phase 3: The Chorus Belt (1:05 - 1:35)
This is the climax of the song. The melody jumps to sustained high notes, specifically hitting E5s on "symphony" and "hold me tight."
- Resonance: Aim for a "forward" placement. Feel the vibration in the mask of your face (nose and cheekbones) rather than in your throat. This takes the pressure off your vocal cords.
- Vowels: Modify the "E" vowel in "symphony" slightly towards an "Ih" sound to make the high note easier to sustain without squeezing.
- Dynamics: Ensure you don't give 100% volume on the first chorus; save your maximum power for the final chorus ad-libs.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted note in the main melody is an E5. However, Zara adds ad-libs and runs that touch G5 in the final sections.
The chorus sits quite high for a Contralto. You can transpose the track down -2 or -3 semitones in the Singing Coach AI app to make the belts more comfortable while keeping the energy.
The leap on "let go" often causes breaks. Practice sliding (glissando) between the notes slowly to bridge your chest and head voice, then speed it up as your muscle memory improves.
