Singing: The Truth Be Told

The truth in singing, according to Hedley Nosworthy, is that the human voice is subject to the laws of nature. Scientific study of the voice over the past half-century has resulted in many changes and breakthroughs. Singing: The Truth Be Told is a summary of the voice science and pedagogy that encompasses both the technical and artistic aspects of singing. The book offers insights into the nature of music, anatomy, physiology and physics, encapsulated music history, performance practice, vocal technique and its health, artistry and style. It is intended for singers in all genres, from concert to commercial. Nosworthy demonstrates a laudable ability to elucidate, in a clear manner, the salient aspects of singing. The text also presents topics that are often overlooked by singers and their teachers, such as cognitive health in singing. The author draws upon numerous excerpts from the pedagogic corpus by voice teachers and scientists such as William Vennard (with whom he studied from 1965-1971), Ingo Titze, Johan Sundberg, Richard Miller, and Robert Sataloff, to name only a few. The volume contains clear explanations, illustrations, and diagrams, as well as a useful summary of style via an exposition of music history and an expansive overview of the IPA. Singing: The Truth Be Told could serve as a reference for singers of all levels.