Vocal Range: 3 Octaves 2 note E3-G6
Whistle Register: No
Vocal Strengths: Unique and prominent coarseness to the voice, with a throaty and guttural chest voice. Despite the heavier weight of the voice the belting range could extend high up into the fifth octave by mixing while retained this characterful rasp. The head voice was bright and full, with a smoother, delicate contrasting texture to the lower half of the voice. Her control in this part of the register was surprisingly strong and deft. Though her voice is remembered for its passionate rasp, it was also capable of a softer and smoother timbre, demonstrating the skill and ability she had as a vocalist. Interestingly, the frayed edges of the notes sang with this textured timbre sometimes allowed for harmonic chords to be created as two or more tones were produced by the voice at the same time.
Vocal Weaknesses: The coarsness of the voice could be found abrasive by some.
Recommended Listening: Maybe [demonstrates the softer texture of Joplin's voice, as well as her head voice ], Piece of my heart [Shows the coarser side of the voice, as well as its passion]
