The Voice Book: Caring For, Protecting, and Improving Your Voice: Caring For, Protecting, and Improving Your Voice

by Kate DeVore, Starr Cookman

More than 30 million Americans rely on their voices for their jobs--from teachers, religious leaders, and entertainers to lawyers, executives, salespeople, and doctors. A controlled voice increases self-confidence and enhances charisma, approachability, and trustworthiness. Yet an astounding 30 percent of professionals develop preventable" "vocal problems that could ruin their careers. And most do not know that both the quality and tone of oneOCOs voice can be changed.""a"The Voice Book: Caring For, Protecting, and Improving Your Voice" is a one-of-a-kind reference that will save and improve your voice, your job, and your personal life. With dozens of vocal exercises and a detailed guide to the anatomy and physiology of voice, the book" "covers the full range of vocal health, from protecting against hoarseness and laryngitis to expanding speaking range and enhancing voice tone and quality.aIllustrations, photographs, FAQs, and an accompanying CD make "The Voice Book "the first vocal self-help book of its kind and a must-read for anyone who wants a dependable, strong, and engaging voice."

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help, Music, Language, Health

208 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2009

Reviews

[Tara Brabazon · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun and informative guide through vocal training. The sonic components that accompany each chapter are excellent. I was impressed by the attention to posture and alignment, and the management of a microphone.

Strong book - and great on the mechanics of a resonant and effective voice.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not have the recorded version of the voice exercises,however, I did very much enjoy the printed book. The voice book has several exercises , facial massage,and techniques to overcome any shortcomings of the speaking voice.the appendix is full of places for further information and therapies and help . I found this book quite enlightening and the drills easy to achieve.i am in hope that my voice will be strong and lasting as I practice what is presented here . This is a great guide to protect your voice, whether you do public speaking,sing, or just engage in long gabfests!

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

I took Kate DeVore's workshop at Acting Studio Chicago a few years back and was so impressed I decided to purchase the book. There are some nifty tips and tricks for maintaining a healthy voice.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. I thought it was a practically laid out for the basics of what it says it will do. I enjoyed the attention/reflction on how alignment and awareness of breath are key supporting the voice. The paying of homage to some of the greats in vocal pedaogy was appreciated, (full disclosure, I'm a Lessac Master Teacher, so I'm particularly pleased to see Arthur Lessac referenced and his influence be present here). Likewise, the reference points related to resonant voice therapy (Lessac-Madsen-Verdolini-Resonant-Voice-Therapy, LMVRVT) are welcoming as it suggests that the work is evidence-based and therapeutically safe. The book is fairly straightforward with the amount of anatomy I perceive necessary to healthy functioning, and is mostly stripped down of terminology that would be challegning for the layman. If I had a criticism it would be that I personally find other options other than over-exaggeration and over-articulation to problem solve and that 'behavior' can often do the job quicker than be technical, and provide successful carryover. Overall, I recommend this book and encourage those interested in carryover to do as the authors recommend and find a personal voice coach in addition. The recordings were easily accessible through the publisher's website with my 2nd edition. These were helpful.

[Andrew Luce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book for learning about improving your voice. It is both practical and educational. It is useful for me both speaking and singing; in the classroom and on the stage.

[Nick · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent basic introduction to the use and care of the voice. Highly recommended for anyone who needs a good voice in work or play.

[Mohammed Kagdi · Rating 2 out of 5]

I did not get the point of some exercises. Only some parts of the book were relevant, rest all were unnecessary information.