The Naked Voice: A Wholistic Approach to Singing

by W. Stephen Smith, Michael Chipman (Primary Contributor)

In The Naked Voice , W. Stephen Smith invites all singers to improve their vocal technique through his renowned and time-tested wholistic method. Focusing not only on the most important technical, but also on the often overlooked psychological and spiritual elements of learning to sing, his book allows readers to develop their own full and individual identities as singers. With philosophies and techniques drawn from a lifetime of teaching voice, Smith demonstrates how one can reveal the true unique sound of one's own voice by singing with the whole self. The master's method, presented in concrete and comprehensible terms with helpful illustrations, is enhanced by a companion website containing exercises performed by singers from Smith's own studio-singers whose talent and training bring them across the country and around the world. The clear and easy style of The Naked Voice welcomes the reader into Smith's teaching studio, and into conversation with Smith himself as he
presents the six simple and elegant exercises that form the core of his method. These exercises provide a foundation for free singing, and lead singers through the step-by-step process of mastering the technique. Throughout, Smith speaks sympathetically and encouragingly to the singer in search of an unencumbered and effective approach to the art. The Naked Voice is a must-read for all singers, giving teachers and students, amateurs and professionals, access to the methods and concepts that have earned Smith his reputation as one of the most highly-sought-after vocal instructors in the international arena today.

Genres: Music

208 pages, Hardcover

First published March 15, 2007

Reviews

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a student of singing (BYU '11) and a singing teacher for 8 years, this is the first technique that I've discovered that does ALL of the following: connects the passagi, produces the most colorful timbre, allows one to sing while sick or otherwise hoarse, extends the ranges, evens the vibrato, and is overall the most effortless way to sing.

[Rob Banks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing book. My teacher has been working with me on these techniques. Now that I've read straight through the book I have that overview that helps me put it all together. Also just a great outlook on how to approach anything worth doing.

[Anna Lluna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating insight into the psychological and physical depth of singing. Reinforces the idea that if we are holding back or tense in life, our singing will too be held and tense. Except for the whole fixation on vowels (mostly aimed at people with Americans accents), Smith explains clearly many concepts which are implicit in the singing world and which are often assumed to be true or overlooked entirely.

[Laurel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Practical and aspirational, this book is a great companion to lessons that support this approach.
I read it slowly and reference it often. The inventions are helpful and are a journey! The idea of finding one’s true voice as a guide to authenticity in life in general resonates with me.

[Troy Farlow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tailored toward the classical singer, for sure, but another brilliant book for anyone interested in learning the language of singing - and how to.

[Linda Kupča · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life changing knowledge.

[Madeline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chapters 10-14. Good reference book

[Jordon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book presents the fundamentals of singing in simplified categories for easy retrieval. Plus, Stephen Smith knows his stuff.

[Kjirsti Foutz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adored this book. If you teach voice, sing, or are just interested in learning to sing better, I think you'll find great insight here.

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

A straightforward book about how to sing better, and to live a more authentic life. Steve Smith is a bit of a genius.