A Dictionary for the Modern Singer

By (author) Matthew Hoch

Paperback - £45.00

Publication date:

28 April 2014

Length of book:

318 pages

Publisher

Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

ISBN-13: 9780810886551

Titles in the Dictionaries for the Modern Musician series offer both the novice and the advanced artist key information designed to convey the field of study and performance for a major instrument or instrument class, as well as the workings of musicians in areas from conducting to composing. Each dictionary covers topics from instrument parts to technique, major works to key figures—a must-have for any musician’s personal library!

A Dictionary for the Modern Singer is an indispensable guide for students of singing, voice pedagogues, and lovers of the art of singing. In addition to classical singing, genres, and styles, musical theatre and popular and global styles are addressed. With an emphasis on contemporary practice, this work includes terms and figures that influenced modern singing styles. Topics include voice pedagogy, voice science, vocal health, styles, genres, performers, diction, and other relevant topics. The dictionary will help students to more fully understand the concepts articulated by their teachers.

Matthew Hoch’s book fills a gap in the singer’s library as the only one-volume general reference geared toward today’s student of singing. An extensive bibliography is invaluable for students seeking to explore a particular subject in greater depth. Illustrations and charts further illuminate particular concepts, while appendixes address stage fright, tips on practicing, repertoire selection, audio technology, and contemporary commercial music styles.

A Dictionary for the Modern Singer will appeal to students of singing at all levels. For professionals, it will serve as a quick and handy reference guide, useful in the high school or college library and the home teaching studio alike; students and amateurs will find it accessible and full of fascinating information about the world of the singing.
A lot has happened in the world of voice since Cornelius Reid’s A Dictionary of Vocal Terminology of 1984. Hence A Dictionary of the Modern Singer, 2014, is a refreshing update of knowledge encompassing both the classical and the commercial contemporary singer’s art. . . .The cover of A Dictionary for the Modern Singer commends it as an indispensable voice guide for students, teachers, professionals, and amateurs. . . .[and] it will find favour with readers in all of those categories. The Dictionary itself is educative, and useful for checking into for a cursory view. The essays, appendices and reading lists provide valuable in-depth information for continuing education. Have it on the piano to refer to; read it; and re-read it!