Hello fellow singers and musicians, welcome back! Last post of the year, can you believe how time flies sometimes?! I am so very happy to have successfully concluded another year with you all. Even though we’re still seeing each other behind a screen and trying to keep up with your journeys remotely, I am extremely proud of all of you for being resilient and as focused as always. I truly hope this holiday season can bring you whatever you’re looking for or needing at the moment and for the future. And speaking of holidays, have you already wrapped something up for those special people in your life? If not, this post might be of double interest to you!
I wanted to finish this year on a high note (pun intended) and share with you all another book which I deem extremely valuable, interesting and practical for those of you studying the art of singing. Or in this case, I should say the science of singing! Nothing better than a cold winter day spent indoors with a warm drink, a blanket and the company of a good book. ‘The singing athlete’ by Andrew Byrne is a must-have in your library collection in my opinion. The book very much reflects my own ideology of singing-training as a holistic approach: body and brain. And in this text you can expect to read all about this duality and functionalities of these two working together to empower you, lift you and allow you to gain access to different strategies that may let you overcome common struggles. Think of it as a bit of an instruction manual (and if you’re a client of mine, very similar to my own ‘handbook’!). The author explores the anatomy of singing and provides some insight on different parts of the body and mind that get involved when singing or producing sound in general, all whilst sharing helpful tips and exercises that can easily be implemented in your current routine.
What is also really cool about this book (geek alert!) is that it has been written under guidance, supervision and experience of many doctors specialised in different fields, meaning you get a very close look at the scientific method of research and analysis as well as practical pedagogical advice on how to practice, improve or approach a new chapter. The book does include various pictures and illustrations that truly make understand concepts a lot easier while gaining a better understanding of how the phonation process works in that specific aspect or place.
I believe this book can bring a whole new level of knowledge and ultimately confidence when it comes to singing. The only disclaimer I feel like giving about this title is to dive in deeply but at small bites perhaps. It can easily overwhelm the casual reader as this is a rather technical book, however with some extra research or just sheer passion you will be able to digest most of the content. Also, don’t be afraid to try out the exercises provided; they are “safe and effective for vocal training.” (Byrne, 2020). Should you have any problems, concerns, questions or anything related to the book or singing in general, please do get in touch with me as usual via email to discuss possible solutions.
I wish you all the best and I can’t wait to hear all your new year resolutions next month!
Check out the author’s website here (more resources+book purchase options)