"The three greatest strengths are: (1) Anthology of songs; (2) CD accompaniment; (3) Author?s knowledge and explanation of basic technique. ? Theatrics of singing is great I especially like the part about ?selling? the song."
"I really like that there is more music and not so much text so the students are actually singing and not just reading about singing. Your organization is good and very useable for the way I teach the course. ? I feel Part I is a good introduction to singing without going overboard. All the important aspects of singing are covered without great detail. Any areas that the students might want to explore more I could certainly enhance, but for an introduction course the material seems to be appropriate. ? I really like the ?Background and Performance Notes? for the songs. ? This is so often overlooked but is so very essential for our singers to learn in order to really ?sell the song? as they need to do."
"This layout is better ordered than the Paton I am using. ? It seems simple and clear. Non-threatening for the scared first-time singer."
"I like your simple explanation in the chapters. The chapters are not long, so they are not intimidating. You do what the title says, ?Basics in singing.?"
"Three major strengths: 1. Excellent information on vocal health that is up to date; 2. Songs are laid out in high and low keys for various voice types and ranges; 3. Good background information about the songs and good variety of song styles to appeal to a broad interest in a class."
--This text refers to the
Spiral-bound
edition.
Reader Reviews
I used this book during my second year of college Concert Choirand during my first voice class. "Basics of Singing" by Jan Schmidt was our textbook. It is an excellent book for students who are just beginning with voice - or any singing class, and for those who are advanced students. When I first wrote this review, I had only been in voice for half a semester. I could read and understand music prior to the class, as I love to play piano and have for years, but this book has helped me improve in that, as well as in rhythm - counting beats for measures. All around it is a musicians treasure trove of good suggestions. I believe using this text has been absolutley wonderful in helping me develop my voice, posture, vibrato. But, the thing you also must keep in mind, is I truly believe you must have a good teacher as well as a good textbook, and that I have been blessed with as well. I still have my copy and refer to it to this day. If you are looking to begin voice, or you're an advanced student looking for a refresher course, Schmidt's book is the key.
