The Functional Unity of the Singing Voice

This second edition of the textbook is designed for college vocal pedagogy courses and provides a comprehensive understanding of the anatomy and physiology of breathing and phonation, acoustical laws, and vocal misuse and abuse. It includes detailed illustrations and an expanded appendix on these topics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 398 pages
Publication date: 22 April 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

This expanded edition of Barbara Doscher's groundbreaking work on vocal pedagogy includes a new introduction by John Nix, as well as a new appendix offering case studies and practical insights from teachers about how Barbara Doscher has impacted their voice instruction. Understanding the functioning of the singing voice is essential for anyone seeking to teach singing. Recognizing that the singing voice is a functional unit is crucial for any safe and effective teaching method. Therefore, this second edition, like its predecessor, provides a comprehensive description of the anatomy and physiology of breathing and phonation, as well as an examination of the acoustical laws necessary for understanding resonation. Primarily designed as a textbook for college vocal pedagogy courses, the book includes detailed illustrations and an expanded appendix on vocal misuse and abuse. This appendix includes data on subglottic air pressure/air flow ratios, the phonatory mode known as belting, and the aging voice, particularly as it is affected by hormonal changes in the body. Additionally, the book features an extensive bibliography.

Introduction:
Barbara Doscher's work on vocal pedagogy has revolutionized the field of singing instruction. Her groundbreaking book, "The Singing Voice: Physiology and Pedagogy," has become a staple in vocal training programs worldwide. In this expanded edition, Doscher brings her expertise to a new generation of singers and teachers, offering a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of the singing voice.

New Introduction by John Nix:
John Nix, a renowned voice professor and clinician, has written a new introduction to this edition. In his introduction, Nix provides an insightful overview of the book's significance and its impact on the field of vocal pedagogy. He highlights the importance of understanding the singing voice as a functional unit and emphasizes the role of this edition in providing a solid foundation for vocal training.

New Appendix:
The new appendix of this edition offers valuable case studies and practical insights from teachers who have worked with Barbara Doscher's methods. These case studies provide real-world examples of how Doscher's approach has helped students achieve their vocal goals and overcome vocal challenges. The appendix also includes practical tips and techniques for teaching singing, making it an invaluable resource for both novice and experienced teachers.

Anatomy and Physiology of Breathing and Phonation:
The second edition of "The Singing Voice" continues to provide a comprehensive description of the anatomy and physiology of breathing and phonation. Doscher delves into the intricate details of how the voice is produced, including the mechanics of breathing, the function of the larynx, and the production of sound. She also discusses the importance of proper breathing techniques and the impact of vocal misuse and abuse on the singing voice.

Acoustical Laws and Resonance:
Doscher's understanding of acoustical laws is evident in this edition. She explains the principles of resonance and how they apply to the singing voice. She discusses the role of the vocal tract in shaping sound and the effects of different vocal registers on the quality of the voice. This section is particularly useful for students who are interested in exploring the technical aspects of singing.

Detailed Illustrations:
The book includes detailed illustrations that help illustrate the concepts discussed in the text. These illustrations are clear and concise, making it easier for students to understand the anatomy and physiology of the singing voice. The illustrations also serve as a visual reference for teachers, helping them to demonstrate the techniques and exercises discussed in the book.

Expanded Appendix on Vocal Misuse and Abuse:
The expanded appendix on vocal misuse and abuse is a valuable addition to this edition. Doscher addresses common vocal problems such as vocal strain, nodules, and vocal fatigue. She provides information on the causes of these problems and offers practical solutions for preventing and treating them. The appendix also includes data on subglottic air pressure/air flow ratios, the phonatory mode known as belting, and the aging voice, particularly as it is affected by hormonal changes in the body.

Extensive Bibliography:
The book includes an extensive bibliography that provides students and teachers with further resources for exploring the field of vocal pedagogy. The bibliography includes books, articles, and research papers on vocal anatomy, physiology, pedagogy, and performance. This bibliography is a valuable tool for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the singing voice and its teaching.

Conclusion:
Barbara Doscher's "The Singing Voice: Physiology and Pedagogy" is a groundbreaking work that has transformed the way we teach singing. This expanded edition, with a new introduction by John Nix and a new appendix offering case studies and practical insights from teachers, continues to be a valuable resource for singers and teachers alike. Whether you are a novice singer or an experienced teacher, this edition provides a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of the singing voice and its teaching. By embracing the principles outlined in this book, you can help your students achieve their vocal goals and develop a lifelong love for singing.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538178867
Edition number: Second Edition Expanded