So You Want to Sing Musical Theatre: A Guide for Performers

Broadway vocal coach, voice teacher, and researcher Amanda Flynn provides the skills singers need to successfully sing musical theatre repertoire. The book is updated and expanded for musical theatre performance in the current era, covering a broader array of topics and including more in-depth discussion than the original edition.

Format: Hardback
Length: 446 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Musical theatre has emerged as a significant component of mainstream American culture over the past decade. From popular television shows like Glee and Smash to the cultural phenomenon of the Broadway show Hamilton, the art form has gained immense popularity. Singers of all ages and backgrounds are drawn to the allure of musical theatre, seeking to hone their skills and showcase their talent on the stage.

In response to this growing demand, Broadway vocal coach, voice teacher, and voice researcher Amanda Flynn has authored So You Want to Sing Musical Theatre, Updated and Expanded Edition. This comprehensive guide offers singers the essential skills and knowledge they need to excel in musical theatre repertoire. With a foreword by George Salazar, the book is tailored to the contemporary landscape of musical theatre performance, covering a broader range of topics with in-depth discussions than its predecessor.

The book begins by delving into the rich history of musical theatre, providing a foundational understanding of the art form. It explores the basic principles of singing voice science, emphasizing the importance of vocal health and the challenges faced by performers in the demanding world of musical theatre. The reader is introduced to various musical genres commonly found in musical theatre productions, from classical to contemporary, and learns about the vocal production techniques required to bring these genres to life.

Furthermore, the book offers a comprehensive guide to musical theatre repertoire. It discusses how to find suitable repertoire, considering factors such as vocal range, style, and emotional depth. It also addresses developmental concerns and offers insights into the process of selecting and preparing songs for auditions and performances. Acting, dancing, and other movement skills are essential for singers in musical theatre, and the book provides practical advice on how to enhance these abilities. It also explores working with children in musical theatre productions and offers tips on auditioning for musical theatre at various levels.

In addition to its instructional content, So You Want to Sing Musical Theatre, Revised and Expanded Edition features profiles of Broadway singers, providing a glimpse into their training, vocal upkeep, and advice for aspiring musical theatre singers. These profiles offer valuable insights and inspiration for those who dream of pursuing a career in the field.

The So You Want to Sing series is produced in partnership with the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS). Like its predecessors, this book includes online supplemental material on the NATS website, offering style-specific exercises, audio and video files, and additional resources to support the learning process.

In conclusion, So You Want to Sing Musical Theatre, Updated and Expanded Edition is a must-have resource for singers who aspire to excel in musical theatre. With its comprehensive coverage of topics, practical advice, and inspiring profiles, this book equips singers with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the competitive world of musical theatre. Whether you are a seasoned performer or a newcomer to the art form, this book will be your guide to achieving your singing goals.

Weight: 806g
Dimension: 158 x 237 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538156315
Edition number: Updated and Expanded Edition