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: Paperback / softback
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 extensive 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 to support further research. By incorporating these valuable additions, this expanded edition of Barbara Doscher's work continues to be a valuable resource for vocal teachers and students alike, helping them to develop a deeper understanding of the singing voice and its potential for expression.

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 pedagogy courses and has helped countless singers and teachers improve their understanding of the singing voice. In this expanded edition, Doscher has added 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 Singing Voice:
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.
Anatomy and Physiology:
The book includes 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. It also features an extensive bibliography to support further research.
Pedagogical Applications:
The expanded edition of "The Singing Voice: Physiology and Pedagogy" provides valuable insights into the practical applications of vocal pedagogy. The case studies and practical insights from teachers offer practical examples of how Barbara Doscher's approach has helped their students achieve success in their singing careers.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this expanded edition of Barbara Doscher's groundbreaking work on vocal pedagogy is a must-have for anyone seeking to teach singing. With a new introduction by John Nix and a new appendix offering case studies and practical insights, this edition provides a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of the singing voice and its potential for expression. Whether you are a vocal teacher or a singer seeking to improve your skills, this book will be an invaluable resource for you.

Weight: 531g
Dimension: 222 x 155 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538178874
Edition number: Second Edition Expanded