The Structure of Singing: System and Art in Vocal Technique [Hardcover]

Richard Miller (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 002872660X | ISBN-13: 978-0028726601 | Publication Date: October 21, 1986 | Edition: 1

Combining the physical, technical, and artistic aspects of singing, the author applies current findings in medicine, acoustics, phonetics, and speech therapy to the singer's needs. The text demonstrates the scientific basis of exercises and vocalises, covering all major areas of vocal technique.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 384 pages
• Publisher: Schirmer; 1 edition (October 21, 1986)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 002872660X
• ISBN-13: 978-0028726601
• Product Dimensions: 9.4 x 6.3 x 1.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (29 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #372,562 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

33 of 33 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Personal Encounter with Richard Miller, January 27, 1999

By 

[e-mail] (Utah) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Structure of Singing: System and Art in Vocal Technique (Hardcover)

Over 40, now having studied with over twenty professional singers and academic coaches, teaching and enjoying public performances in opera as well as several civic choral societies, I can only regret not having access to this material much earlier in my career. Recently I was introduced to Richard's master class and seminar and I knew immediately that I had to acquire this text. Unlike so many subjctive apporaches I have ran into elsewhere, there is little left to the imagination or to private interpretation when it comes to the pysiology and functionality of the voice as it is so well outlined in its pages. Regardless of the style of singing one might wish to pursue, every serious student/performer will gain infinite insight from following this comprehensive guide to perfecting a more internationaly accepted vocal technique. The sheer volume of difinitive information it contains constitutes the most exhaustive collection of practical examples, scientific research and systematic exercises that I have ever encountered. Now utilized as the basis of instruction at many universities, this lively publication is a must for every studio.

51 of 54 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent, but NOT for those who are uneducated about singin, October 10, 2004

By 

BDSinC "Music lover" (Calgary, Alberta, Canada) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Structure of Singing: System and Art of Vocal Technique (Paperback)

This may sound pompous, that is, saying what I say in the title of my review. This book is excellent, and it is the first one I read by Richard Miller. However, I have sang for decades, had a career, and teach voice. I have a background in understanding what he is talking about. I read the reviews that rated this book a one star, and quite frankly, I can see why such a person would do that. It was evident by the reviews that these people, though they want to sing and love doing it, are still looking for that "one perfect exercise" that will create their "soon to be famous voice." This book will not do that for you. Firstly, there is no such thing as a "singing made simple" book, even though there are plenty of them out there that claim such a thing is possible. It is true one doesn't need to understand all there is to know about singing to sing well, but one does have a greater appreciation for what they are doing if they learn more than the basic scales.

This book does try to help people understand the physical functionings of the voice, which techniques out there actually work against good vocal production and which things support it. All of that can be very confusing if you are not somewhat knowledgeable of singing technique.

That is why I say, this book is NOT for those who are not educated in singing, or who are seeking a quick fix for some vocal problem they may have, or who simply think reading a book on voice will make them the winners of the NEXT AMERICAN IDOL. Personally, I think this book is more valuable to teachers than anyone, but it is excellent for serious students who wish to learn more about what is happening in their bodies as they sing.

None of Richard Miller's books are an easy read, and in fact, they are very academic in nature and in word usage, and they presuppose the reader has a very active background in vocal terminalogy.

I recommend all his books for those who are studying and most especially to those who teach. I don't recommend any of them to those who are wanting the "quick fix" to stardom. One thing all readers of his works need is a very detailed understanding of their own bodies, and what they do while they sing. Only then will the information he gives really help you, for only then will you see if you are using your muscles correctly or if you are not.

Miller's books on singing, as excellent as I think they are, are not for everyone. Buy this book only if you are sure you know it contains what you are able to understand. I recommend borrowing his books from public libraries before you buy them, then you will be able, without having spent the price, to see if they help you. Once you see how good they are, then buying them is an excellent idea.

38 of 39 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Insightful, December 4, 1999

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[e-mail] - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Structure of Singing: System and Art in Vocal Technique (Hardcover)

One of the most insightful books I have read. Mr. Millers book is so well thought out. The material is so well researched that it sometimes feels like one is reading a research paper. Do not let this discourage you from buying it, however, because it never gets boring. It is a very useful tool for any person who wants to improve his voice. I noticed results withing a few days of reading the book and I have to admit I haven't even tried all the exercises. This book is also not always easy to understand but Mr. Miller does his best to help by adding an appendix and even a glossary of vocal terms! Definitely worth your money if your seeking to better your voice, even if it is not for a professional career.