Bel Canto: A Theoretical and Practical Vocal Method (Dover Books on Music) [Paperback]

Mathilde Marchesi (Author)

Book Description

Series: Dover Books on Music | Publication Date: June 1, 1970

Renowned teacher presents the "vocal alphabet," or basic instructions and exercises that formed the voices of her own students, who included Melba and Calvé. Topics include breathing, attack, registers, voice management, and projection.

Product Details

• Paperback: 128 pages
• Publisher: Dover Publications; New edition edition (June 1, 1970)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0486223159
• ISBN-13: 978-0486223155
• Product Dimensions: 12.2 x 9.4 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (10 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #176,437 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #100 in Books > Arts & Photography > Music > Theory, Composition & Performance > Sheet Music & Scores > Forms & Genres > Vocal

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

28 of 29 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Don't try this alone, kids!, September 16, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: Bel Canto: A Theoretical and Practical Vocal Method (Dover Books on Music) (Paperback)

While the book includes a set of progressive exercises which are definitely essential, Marchesi's comments on singing technique are limited to only a few pages. When you consider that leading pedagogues such as Richard Miller, Meribeth Bunch and others have devoted volumes to vocal technique, Marchesi's advice is sparse, to say the least. A good book if you are currently working with a teacher or are an advanced singer with solid classical technique looking for some new exercises. Not for the beginner to attempt alone!!!

20 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A must have for those who want to learn bel canto, March 13, 2001

By A Customer

This review is from: Bel Canto: A Theoretical and Practical Vocal Method (Dover Books on Music) (Paperback)

This book is mostly scales with a few pages of actual vocal technique. This is not for the beginner to use though. The person who uses this book should use it as a supplement to their own vocal studies and have a solid technique for the scales to actually work for you. I'm thorougly enjoying the book thus far.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Nice Vocal Exercises, August 3, 2005

By 

Heather M. Latiri "gypsy_13" - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Bel Canto: A Theoretical and Practical Vocal Method (Dover Books on Music) (Paperback)

I bought this book to review it and decide whether or not to use it in my studio for my students.

The preface in which she describes the glottal stroke is correct in that this is what happens upon phonation, but a singer may interpret it as to start the sound with a diliberate glottal stroke which is harsh on the vocal chords.

The exercises are nice and challenging. The progression of the exercices build on each other as well. I have started using this for my more advanced students.