The Functional Unity of the Singing Voice

by Barbara M. Doscher

An understanding of how the singing voice functions should be a prerequisite for all those who wish to teach singing. And fundamental to any safe and efficient teaching method is the recognition that the singing voice is a functional unit. Consequently, this second edition, like the first, describes the anatomy and physiology of breathing and phonation and examines the acoustical laws necessary for an understanding of resonation. It is designed primarily as a textbook for college vocal pedagogy courses.The updated edition includes more detailed illustrations and an expansion of the appendix on vocal misuse and abuse, including data on subglottic air pressure/air flow ratios, the phonatory mode known as belting, and the aging voice, especially as it is affected by hormonal changes in the body. With extensive bibliography.

352 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1993

Reviews

[Amy Cummings]

This was my textbook in my graduate level vocal pedagogy course in college and it has a wealth of information on the functionality and physiology of the human voice, and how to best coach your students based on what is healthy for their voice. A very dry read, unfortunately, but very helpful to the private voice instructor nonetheless.

[niftynei]

One of the more accessible singing mechanics books I've seen. Does a thorough job of outlining the musculature and skeletal components of producing sound, but isn't as actively applicable to the singing practice as I'd hoped.