Rachel L. Lebon

The art of singing is constantly evolving and reflecting our changing world, proving the importance of versatility for opening oneself to other cultures and styles, enriching the experience of communicating with the human voice, and most importantly, enjoying more opportunities for professional performance. While singers explore the myriad ways to communicate emotion and ideas, they experiment with different timbres, instruments, languages, and musical genres. As situations vary, the demands on the voice as a musical instrument, and the act of singing itself, must be modified. In this follow up to her 1999 volume, The Professional Vocalist, author Rachel L. Lebon continues to give expert advice on the singing profession, describing the musical and vocal adjustments essential to becoming a versatile vocalist. She addresses proprioception, the kinesthetic feedback, vocal adjustments associated with 'crossing over' and exploring new sounds and styles, and performing authentically within contrasting performance situations. Many facets of performance are considered: differing venues_from small studios or clubs to large concert halls; singing acoustically or with sound reinforcement; singing in various styles of music_be it commercial, popular, jazz, or classical; and varieties of instrumental accompaniment_whether a single instrument, a small ensemble, a full orchestra with strings, a big band with horns blaring, or rock bands with wailing guitars. The book discusses factors that influence vocal approaches, including recording studio technology, live sound reinforcement, speech, language, and microphone styles and their affect on musical genres. Practical aspects of music preparation, song learning, rehearsal techniques, and achieving vocal longevity are given, as well as 'real world' strategies and advice from Lebon and other working professionals.

The art of singing is constantly evolving and reflecting our changing world, proving the importance of versatility for opening oneself to other cultures and styles, enriching the experience of communicating with the human voice, and most importantly, enjoying more opportunities for professional performance. While singers explore the myriad ways to communicate emotion and ideas, they experiment with different timbres, instruments, languages, and musical genres. As situations vary, the demands on the voice as a musical instrument, and the act of singing itself, must be modified. In this follow up to her 1999 volume, The Professional Vocalist, author Rachel L. Lebon continues to give expert advice on the singing profession, describing the musical and vocal adjustments essential to becoming a versatile vocalist. She addresses proprioception, the kinesthetic feedback, vocal adjustments associated with "crossing over" and exploring new sounds and styles, and performing authentically within contrasting performance situations. Many facets of performance are considered: differing venues—from small studios or clubs to large concert halls; singing acoustically or with sound reinforcement; singing in various styles of music—be it commercial, popular, jazz, or classical; and varieties of instrumental accompaniment—whether a single instrument, a small ensemble, a full orchestra with strings, a big band with horns blaring, or rock bands with wailing guitars. The book discusses factors that influence vocal approaches, including recording studio technology, live sound reinforcement, speech, language, and microphone styles and their affect on musical genres. Practical aspects of music preparation, song learning, rehearsal techniques, and achieving vocal longevity are given, as well as "real world" strategies and advice from Lebon and other working professionals.

Breaking into the world of professional singing can present even the most talented singer with new problems and concerns. In this useful book, Rachel Lebon guides the aspiring singer through the unfamiliar world of commercial singing, from the physical processes of voice, to effective microphone technique and proper studio protocol. The purpose of this handbook is two-fold: to provide practical suggestions that will prepare the student/vocalist for professional singing opportunities, and to present a pedagogical approach that specifically addresses the vocal needs of a singer within the commercial music world. The first section of the text is directed to the aspiring commercial vocalist. It begins with a discussion of the voice as a musical instrument, including discussions of healthy speech patterns, maintaining the voice, and good vocal hygiene. The book also contains resources concerning the mechanics of lead sheets and music preparation, key selection, transposition, and strategies to develop distinctive vocal style and interpretation. Descriptions of the performance context of "club dates," recording sessions, and professional auditions are provided as well. The second section of the helpful handbook is directed toward the voice teacher and aspiring singer, and is devoted to developing confident vocal techniques for singing in commercial idioms. It includes a range of issues from breath management and articulation, to stress release and warm-up exercises. A rewarding aid to singers faced with the continual challenges of the modern, professional singing world.