Book Reviews
“This is more than just basic book on vocal technique and development and does a wonderful job augmenting my work with a professional teacher.”
“I've always wanted to learn more about singing and this did the trick. It's easy to read and explains not just how to improve but why using these methods will help you improve. Plus, the included CD takes you through vocal warm ups and exercises that you can do over and over to gradually strengthen your voice and extend your vocal range.”
“This book has so much in it, it's like a master's course. So I guess you could say it is a bargain.”
“I ordered Singing for Dummies originally because I have had experience with the "Dummies" line of instruction books and had confidence in their effectiveness. But this book was truly instructive. All I was looking for was the basics about breathing, intonation and range. The "nuts and bolts" of singing. The drills included on the CD were very helpful. References placed through the book reminding you where to find the text pertaining to a drill or aspect of singing made it easy to put together the point being made. It was a real bargain.”
“I loved the information and the way it’s simplified. I teach voice lessons, so it gave me great ideas for my lesson plan.”
“FULL OF GOOD STUFF FOR SINGERS”
“Good exercises and tips. The wide variety of exercises really stimulates and enhances one's vocal cords. Great buy for the serious singer.”
“I purchased this for my daughter-in-law at Christmas and she loves it. She and my son have decided to go back to school to study music and she loves to sing and to perform. She told me this book really helped her.”
“I studied opera for six years, and I have a young niece who is very interested in vocal production. I don't see her often enough to answer all of her questions, and since she's a beginning vocal student, I bought this book for her. She loves it! She says she's already learned so much from it, and I have to say, it is pretty comprehensive. In addition to the written material, there are exercises to help the budding singer overcome specific vocal problems (you'll need access to a keyboard), and there is a CD that is also somewhat instructive. Those who feel they want to make singing, whether opera, musical theater, or something else, their career, are given advice on how to find the best teacher for their needs. This isn't for advanced students, of course, and it doesn't take the place of a really good instructor, but it's a good, comprehensive introduction to vocal production, and it will help any beginner decide whether he or she wants to pursue an actual career in the field of vocal music.”
“I have not read, but a small fraction of the book, and have not listened to cd yet, and still with the small amount I have covered, I sound like a different person. I love it, and excited about my full potential.”
“This book is packed with information. Very comprehensive. It was recommended by my voice teacher. The CD is also good - full of exercises.”
“This is a very satisfying book which put whatever I knew about singing into perspective. I joined a choir about a year ago and have been doing breathing and singing exercises with the group but wasn't sure how to replicate them at home. With this book and CD, I can practice every day and be conscious of why exactly I'm doing the particular exercise.”
“The writing is very clear and humorous but also detailed and pithy. Sometimes I pick it up and read a chapter just for the fun of it. As the writer says, you can dip in and find helpful tips and instructions but it is also carefully graded so that you can follow the instructions chapter by chapter.”
“A wonderful way to be introduced into singing.”
“I recently joined a choir so bought this in the hope of improving my performance. It's well written, humorous in places, and answers all of my questions. Once I've finished reading the book I'll listen to the CD then read the book for a second time as there's a lot of information to assimilate!”
“Worth Every Penny, Easy to use, great to practice with! Buy it and it will point you in the right direction.”
“This is a good study book. It starts with posture, carries on with an explanation about the mouth, the vocal cords. Then it takes you through basics of opening your mouth to project your voice. Plenty of exercises matched with the CD. The CD included with the book is also a good warm up of your voice. I engaged with this book and tried to apply this at church where I am a chorister (adult one!) The book is progressive, the tips are really worth their salt for a beginner like me. For me it was important to know how to project your voice. it was important to understand how to open your mouth like in the start of a yawn. There are also explanations of what to do when you learn a new song and takes you through to performance level. It covers all types of music in their summary and shows you the difference between an opera singer and a pop music singer. There's advice for all types of singers. I think the book is comprehensive, meaty and easy to follow. If you put the time, you will certainly improve on your voice and take more pleasure in singing.”
“I am absolutely amazed at how much this has helped both me and my husband, who has Parkinson's. Easy peasy!”
“Very useful cd and the book is extremely easy to understand and helps to improve the technique
Will suggest it to anyone who is starting.”
“I really liked this. It is one of the best vocal tutor books I have seen for a while. The section on belting is probably not for beginners. Apart from that - SMASHING with a superb CD.”
“Really excellent book and CD for any novice singer.”
“I haven't completed the book but it has been good so far. I am trying to pursue a career in singing and songwriting so this is great to get a good base of knowledge like a 101 course in college.”