Legato – Staccato
So you would likely mostly sing legato. And once in a while use the staccato, for an energy boost. To highlight the rhythm. For example in swing or latin tunes.
In ballads, staccato can also be used. For example when singing ‘as if you are talking’: speech singing. For dramatic effect. In this case to highlight the lyrics.
Simplification
In this example, the chord underneath the melody stays the same and all three notes play well with that chord – no harmonic conflicts.
But that isn’t always the case. So try this at home first! Choose a note that plays well with the chords. Harmonic conflicts are usually clearly audible: they sound like ‘wrong’ notes.
Embellishments
Naturally, this takes practice to make it sound really relaxed and easy. And it should be used sparsely. Because otherwise every note starts to sound ‘shaky’.
However, it’s a handy tool for notes that are hard to sing with perfect pitch. Usually high notes, sometimes very low ones. Anything out of your comfort zone.
Adding an embellishment to those notes can help mask a not so perfect pitch. Just don’t tell anyone your secret :)
Direction
Again, this works as long as it doesn’t create a harmonic conflict. Try it at home first!
You’ll develop a feel for it when you develop your musical hearing. Which is part of what the training programs are for.
Back phrasing on a beat
Again, you will usually be able to do this, and the rhythmic variations demonstrated in the next few videos, without causing a harmonic conflict. But sometimes – or in some places in a tune – it might cause a harmonic conflict – sound ‘wrong’.
Therefor: try it at home first. And yes, you will gradually develop a feel and an ear for these kind of things.
However, jazz is defined by the creative use of harmonic, melodic and rhythmic conflict. If you really want to master all of this this, make sure to check out the “How to improvise” course of Songbird. Even if you don’t plan to improvise. It will make you aware of these crucial things.
