The Defining Soprano Solo
"Think of Me" is the pivotal moment in The Phantom of the Opera where Christine Daaé steps out of the chorus and into the spotlight. In the 2004 film adaptation, Emmy Rossum delivers a performance that bridges the gap between opera and musical theatre pop.
To sing this correctly, you must abandon the breathy, conversational style of modern pop. This song demands long lyrical lines (legato), a consistent vibrato, and a bright, forward placement in the mask of the face to achieve that crystalline soprano sound.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
Many singers "scoop" up to notes in this song. Our analysis rewards clean onsets. Hit the center of the pitch immediately rather than sliding into it, especially on the words "Think" and "Fondly."
Phase 1: The Ballad Intro (0:00 - 1:45)
The song begins in D Major. The opening lines, "Think of me, think of me fondly," sit in a comfortable middle range (mix voice). The challenge here is breath control. You need to sing long phrases without gasping for air.
The Trap: Avoid making the sound too heavy or chesty. Keep the tone sweet and innocent, visualizing the sound resonating in your cheekbones rather than your chest.
Phase 2: The Modulation (1:45 - 2:50)
The energy shifts as the rhythm picks up ("We never said our love was evergreen"). The song modulates, and you need to bring more power. This is not a belt, but a supported head-mix.
- Imagine: This section requires emotional urgency. The vibrato should be slightly faster here to reflect the character's growing confidence.
- Or else: Be careful with the interval jumps. The melody moves quickly, and it is easy to go flat on the descending notes.
Phase 3: The Cadenza (2:50 - End)
This is the famous vocal run at the end. Emmy Rossum executes a vocalise that ascends to a high B5. This section must be sung in a pure head voice.
To hit the high notes, drop your jaw and keep your tongue flat against the bottom teeth. Do not "reach" up for the note with your chin; instead, think of planting your feet firmly on the ground to anchor the sound. The final note should taper off into a delicate vibrato.
Frequently Asked Questions
In Emmy Rossum's version, the highest note in the final cadenza is a B5. Some stage versions may vary, but the B5 is the target for this arrangement.
It is difficult to belt "Think of Me" effectively because it is written for a lyrical soprano. Belting the high notes often ruins the "innocent" character of the song. Focus on strengthening your head voice instead.
Vibrato should come from a relaxed larynx and consistent breath support. If your jaw is shaking, you are forcing it. Use the Singing Coach AI app to visualize your pitch line and smooth out the waves.
