Bel Canto

Rating:
Summary: A must for voice students/teachers
Review: This book covers the history of vocal pedagogy from its very beginings to detailed discussions on the thoeries of Manuel Garcia, Lamperti and so forth. It also gives you some glimpse on other techniques that were brought into being, backing them solidly with proofs to why the old italian school of voice production was and still is the most natural and favourite. It gives detailed description on the vocal technique itself with description of how the larynx works and so forth. (the title makes you think its only history but IT IS NOT! It is what one calls a professional down to earth book which talks about the practical but it is not an exercise workbook!) I never found a book so detailed in describing the many 'things' that are part of this technique so well put and easily understood. it also talkes about idiom and expression in the voice. Makes you love technique and not be bored just by reading about it, makes you appreciate this great gift our culture has handed upon us, to continue to nurture it in our own little ways. The Language is very well written - serious, steady and professional. Presentation is excellent. Points well made and clearly understood. This book has so many good virtues, that words just cannot measure what I mean to say. for me, it is THE definate voice bible I have been so long waiting for, both for my thesis and vocal studies! Then for further reading, I suggest J.T. Caldwell Expressive Singing Dalcroze Eurhythmics for voice. It sort of contiues where J.Stark leaves off as regards to discussing expressivity. With this later book Please be careful cause I was greatly dissapointed with the damaged one they sent me (without any reply when I complained) but nonetheless, a good book is a good book - sufferes a bit with presentation though.