Discover your true singing voice with this comprehensive guide to a healthy and expressive vocal journey. This resource features a blend of technical discussions, exercises, and insights designed to enhance every aspect of vocal use, from producing sound healthily to exercises that promote vocal agility and tips for rehearsing with your band. Contributions from artists like Patti Austin and Ysaye M. Barnwell (of Sweet Honey in the Rock) provide valuable perspectives on singing, the mind-body connection, and a wellness-oriented approach to musicianship. The included CD complements the practice exercises and learning methods for new songs.
You will gain knowledge in the following areas:
- Physical, mental, and spiritual practices to help you express your authentic self.
- An understanding of the physiology of your vocal mechanism, enabling better control and improvement of your singing.
- Essential elements of vocal technique, including breathing, diction, vowel production, vocal registers, tone production, and variations in technique for different styles.
- Microphone techniques, band management strategies, ensemble concepts, and other technical aspects of musicianship.
- Strategies for maintaining mental and physical health throughout your singing career, including insights on Reiki energy healing and the Alexander Technique.
- Exercises for vocal warm-ups and technique development, supported by the accompanying CD.
- Performance techniques to help you engage your audience, manage performance anxiety, express yourself confidently, and connect with listeners.
"This book is remarkable. In my forty years as a producer working with singers and producing music, this is the most comprehensive work I’ve encountered. It addresses what singers truly need to know, going beyond the typical content found in singing books. It integrates the spiritual and physical aspects of musicianship along with music study. The interview with Patti Austin alone justifies the book's price." —Bernie Drayton, music and record producer, Grammy nominee and multiple Cleo Award winner.
"Jeannie Gagne's book on vocal technique is a thoughtful and detailed exploration of vocal anatomy, providing tools for health and well-being while guiding aspiring vocalists through all stages of developing a sustainable voice. The diagrams and meticulous attention to detail are commendable. This book serves as an excellent reference for young students, educators seeking innovative teaching methods, and seasoned professionals looking to refine their technique. Jeannie is a highly respected vocalist who has maintained her beautiful instrument, and through this book, she is equipping future generations to do the same." —Lauren Kinhan, New York Voices.
"Jeannie is an outstanding teacher with a creative approach to vocal technique and wellness. This book will assist singers in connecting their body, mind, and spirit for truly inspired performances." —Anne Peckham, Interim Chair of the Voice Department, Berklee College of Music.