Let’s Talk Belting: What It Is, How to Do It, and the Different Kinds

Let’s be real — nothing gives you that electric, goosebump-inducing theatre moment like a powerful belt.

But what is belting, exactly? Is it yelling? Chest voice? Magic? And how do you do it without blowing out your vocal cords?

At Nova Voice Studio, belting is one of the most requested vocal skills — and also one of the most misunderstood. Let’s break it down together, so you can belt with freedom, confidence, and vocal health.

What Is Belting?

Belting is singing high notes with the power and tone quality of your chest voice, rather than flipping into head voice or falsetto.

You’ll hear it in:

• Musical theatre (think Elphaba in Wicked)

• Pop and rock vocals

• Gospel, soul, and even some folk styles

A good belt is strong, expressive, and feels grounded in the body — not forced or tight in the throat.

What Belting Is Not:

🚫 Screaming

🚫 Pushing from your throat

🚫 Trying to “copy” someone else’s sound

🚫 All one-size-fits-all

The goal is resonance, not strain — we build the technique from the inside out, so you can sing powerfully without pain or fatigue.

Types of Belting

Not all belts are created equal! There are different types of belting, and each has its own use depending on genre, mood, and vocal range.

1. Chest-Dominant Belt

This is the most “classic” belt — think Idina Menzel, Jennifer Hudson, or Lea Michele.

• Powerful, punchy

• Bright and speech-like

• Often used for high-energy, emotional moments

🧠 Training tip: This belt needs solid breath support and vowel shaping to stay safe and sustainable.

2. Mix Belt (aka “Mixy” or “Middle Belt”)

This belt blends chest and head resonance — it’s slightly lighter, more flexible, and great for storytelling.

• Think Sara Bareilles, Cynthia Erivo, or Ariana DeBose

• Still strong, but with a little more “give”

• Often used in contemporary musical theatre and pop crossover styles

🧠 Training tip: Learning how to shift your resonance forward and manage airflow is key here.

3. Twangy Belt

This is a belt that leans on twang resonance — bright, brassy, and forward.

• Think Shoshana Bean or Jessie J

• Efficient and cutting, but doesn’t require as much brute power

• Often uses a narrow vowel and lifted soft palate

🧠 Training tip: Twang can help you belt higher with less effort — we love using it for longevity.

4. Speech-Based Belt

This belt comes directly from a strong speaking voice — more conversational and grounded.

• Think Waitress, Once, or Jason Robert Brown music

• Used for intimate or emotionally raw moments

• Doesn’t sound “yelled,” just deeply present

🧠 Training tip: Explore your natural speaking voice and build from there for authenticity.

How to Start Belting (Safely)

✅ Start low and strong — build your chest voice foundation

✅ Work with speech-like vowels — “yeah,” “nay,” “hey” are great

✅ Support from your body, not your throat — activate breath and core

✅ Train with a coach — avoid habits that can lead to tension or fatigue

At Nova Voice Studio, we specialize in safe, personalized belting technique for all styles — from musical theatre to pop to indie rock. You don’t need to fit into a box — we build the belt that works for your voice.

Belting Isn’t a Superpower — It’s a Skill

And like any skill, it can be built with the right tools, time, and guidance.

Want to learn how to belt like a pro — without hurting your voice?

Book a session with us at novavoicestudio.com and follow us on Instagram @nvs.studio for belting tips, warmups, and real student transformations.