The questions we get asked most often about RIFRAN. If yours isn't here, get in touch through STAR SPARK.
What are riffs and runs?
An ornamental vocal technique used throughout R&B and pop: a string of quick notes sung smoothly, each one into the next. The pitch moves fast while the vowel stays the same. They're rare in Japanese-language songs, which is why there has never been a standard way to practice them in Japan.
Is it free? Do I need an account?
It's free, and there's no account and no login. Open the page in a browser and you can start practicing right away.
Does it work on a phone?
Yes. On a phone the layout fits into a single screen; on a computer the extra width goes to a larger view of the character. There's no app to install — it all runs in the browser.
What tempo should I start at?
Every exercise has a suggested starting tempo (55–75 bpm), and it's already set when you open it, so just press play. Once you can sing it cleanly, go up 5 bpm at a time toward the target tempo, which is 105–130 bpm depending on the exercise. You can set anything from 40 to 200 bpm.
What's the difference between Basic, Ariana-style and Camila-style?
Basic is the 12 exercises every run is built from: five-, six- and seven-note ascents and descents plus turn figures, in both major and minor. Ariana-style is fast runs from the top of your range with melismas on phrase endings; Camila-style is bluesy minor pentatonic and scoops. The two artist-inspired modes have five exercises each. Starting with Basic is the way to go.
The key is too high (or too low) for me.
Use the ♭ and ♯ buttons under “Key” on the practice screen to transpose by semitone, up to six semitones in either direction. Move it somewhere you can sing comfortably — transposing doesn't change what the exercise trains.
There's no sound.
Browsers won't play audio until you interact with the page, so press play first. If it's still silent, check that your device isn't on silent mode, that the browser tab isn't muted, and that the volume is turned up.
Can I use it as a complete beginner?
Yes. Start with the five-note ascent in Basic, at a slow tempo, checking one note at a time. The keyboard lights up with each note, so you can follow what you're hearing by eye even if you don't read music.
Can I use it in my voice studio or in school lessons?
Please do — individuals and studios alike are welcome to use it for practice. If you'd like to go beyond lesson use, for example reprinting it in teaching materials or redistributing it, get in touch through STAR SPARK (https://starspark.jp).
How do I get in touch?
Through the site of STAR SPARK (https://starspark.jp), which operates RIFRAN.