As we all know, Disney is no stranger to producing some of the world’s most iconic music. Whether we’re talking about classic hits from decades past or newer tracks from more recent films, there’s something for everyone in their extensive catalog. And while many of these tunes have been belted out by sopranos, altos have just as much to offer in terms of powerful vocal performances.
In this article, we’ll be delving into some of the greatest Disney songs for altos, exploring their unique qualities and diving into why they’re so beloved by singers around the world.
“Part of Your World” – Jodi Benson
The iconic song from “The Little Mermaid” is one of the quintessential Disney tunes for altos. With enchanting lyrics that conjure up images of a wonderous underwater world, this ballad showcases the stunning vocal range of any alto singer. There’s a gentle, yet powerful build-up in the chorus, which is perfect for bringing out the emotional depth of the lyrics and showcasing the alto’s ability to reach higher notes.
Overall, “Part of Your World” is a magical and unforgettable piece that any alto should aspire to sing.
“Reflection” – Christina Aguilera
“Reflection” by Christina Aguilera is a powerful and introspective track that’s perfect for altos looking to showcase their vocal range. The song’s deeply reflective lyrics, combined with Aguilera’s soaring vocals and emotional delivery, make it a standout choice for musicians looking to connect with their own feelings and experiences. Despite being released over 20 years ago, “Reflection” remains a timeless classic that’s sure to resonate with audiences of all ages.
https://youtu.be/uqsxBI__jII
“Colors of the Wind” – Judy Kuhn
“Colors of the Wind” is a Disney song that is popular among alto vocalists. Sung by Judy Kuhn, the song is characterized by its powerful yet gentle melody that speaks to the beauty of nature and the need to embrace diversity and harmony in society.
With its emotive lyrics and soaring vocals, the song offers an opportunity for altos to showcase their range and vocal versatility, making it a beloved choice for auditions and performances alike.”
“A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” – Ilene Woods
One of the most iconic Disney songs for altos comes from the classic movie Cinderella. The timeless ballad describes the hopes and dreams of the main character, as she ponders the idea of magic while singing “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes.”
The song is perfect for altos because it allows for a great range of emotions to be on display, from the soft and subtle to the powerful and grandiose. The song’s melody also showcases the alto voice’s ability to blend seamlessly with other harmonies and instruments.
“I See the Light” – Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi
“I See the Light” is a hauntingly beautiful duet from Disney’s “Tangled,” featuring the vocal talents of Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi. This soaring, emotional ballad showcases the tender yet powerful alto voice of Mandy Moore, as she sings about the transformative power of love.
The song’s sweeping melody and touching lyrics are perfectly suited for altos who want to showcase their vocal range and raw emotions, making it a perfect choice for any singer looking to tap into the deep, mythic themes that Disney music is known for.
“Once Upon a Dream” – Mary Costa
This classic sweet melody was sung by Mary Costa as Princess Aurora in the 1959 animated movie “Sleeping Beauty.” The ballad features lower registers and runs in a soothing tone that is suitable for alto singers.
The minimalistic instrumentation and lyrical simplicity complement the alto voice to create a perfect harmony. This song is a popular choice for singers with dark and warm vocal tones, showcasing a softer side of classic Disney music.
“Let It Go” – Idina Menzel
One of the standout numbers for Disney altos is a powerful ballad about letting go, the iconic “Let It Go” from Frozen. Sung by Idina Menzel, its soaring vocals and introspective lyrics make it a perfect showcase for the talents of altos who can bring a deep emotional resonance and passion to the performance.
With its catchy hooks and soaring chorus, “Let It Go” has become a modern Disney classic that captures the spirit of transformation and self-discovery, making it an ideal addition to any alto’s repertoire.
“Just Around the Riverbend” – Judy Kuhn
This beautiful and uplifting Disney song is a perfect choice for altos looking for a piece to showcase their range and emotional depth. Sung by the adventurous Pocahontas, “Just Around the Riverbend” is a moving exploration of living life with courage and determination, even when faced with unknown challenges.
The melody is both rich and complex, with soaring notes that allow the alto to express their full vocal range. Whether performed as a solo or as part of a larger ensemble, “Just Around the Riverbend” is a must-learn song for any alto seeking to connect with their inner strength and spirit.
“Someday My Prince Will Come” – Adriana Caselotti
The iconic “Someday My Prince Will Come” from Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is a timeless classic that combines optimism and romance with its beautiful melody. This beloved tune is frequently covered by altos, who are particularly well-suited for its lush, dreamy sound.
A moving and emotional song, “Someday My Prince Will Come” is a standout choice for any alto looking for an iconic piece to showcase their vocal talents.
“The Second Star to the Right” – Kathryn Beaumont
“The Second Star to the Right” is a beautiful and whimsical song that speaks to the childlike wonder and magic of Neverland. Its ethereal melody and gentle lyrics make it perfect for altos to showcase their vocal range and dreamy tone. The song captures the sense of freedom and carefree spirit that we all long for, urging us to follow the second star to the right and fly straight on till morning. Altos can evoke delightful emotion with their voice while hitting the perfect pitch and tone that this song requires.
“When Will My Life Begin?” – Mandy Moore
“When Will My Life Begin?” is an enchanting Disney song that received critical acclaim for its beautiful melody and empowering lyrics. It is a perfect song for altos as it showcases the lower range of the voice with ease. The song has a lovely upbeat tempo that is sure to enhance your mood, and the relatable lyrics will surely motivate you to take action towards achieving your dreams and goals.
The song is a great choice for anyone seeking inspiration and empowerment, and serves as an excellent addition to any alto singer’s repertoire.
“He’s a Tramp” – Peggy Lee
“He’s a Tramp” is a classic Disney tune from the film Lady and the Tramp that speaks to the adventurous spirit of altos. Peggy Lee’s amazing vocals echo the fun and carefree nature of the title character, who is known for his rough, but lovable personality. This song’s upbeat tempo and jazzy vibe make it the perfect piece to show off an alto’s range and abilities.
“Something There” – Paige O’Hara and Robby Benson
This enchanting song, performed by Paige O’Hara and Robby Benson, is perfect for alto singers looking for a dramatic, romantic tune. It tells the story of the Beast’s transformation as he falls in love with Belle, blending a traditional orchestral score with modern pop elements.
The song features a slow and soaring melody, with rich harmonies and vocals that explore themes of hope, love, and self-discovery. Its dynamic range and evocative lyrics make it a perennial favorite in musical theater circles, and a must-sing for any aspiring alto.
