Singing and Voice Science (2000). By Jean Callaghan. Singular Publishing Group, Inc., 401 West A St., Suite 325, San Diego, CA 92101-7904. 131 pages, $49.95. Reviewed by Elaine M. Shuey, East Stroudsburg University, PA.

This book is intended for singers, teachers of singing, voice scientists, or speech-language pathologists who work with singers. The author is an Australian singer, teacher, and researcher who holds a doctorate in vocal pedagogy. Throughout the book, the author expresses her concern that singing teachers lack knowledge of the science of voice production at all levels. The purpose of the book is to teach singing teachers in particular about these areas.

The book opens with an interesting history of vocal instruction, including the tradition of techniques being handed down orally, and the gradual change in it from pure art to the incorporation of scientific investigation. Some of the terminology may be unfamiliar to those not involved in singing or singing instruction, but the author consistently defines terms as much as possible. Later chapters follow the traditional "speech chain" of respiration, phonation, articulation, and resonance. Registration and vocal health each have their own chapters and the book ends with a summary of how this information applies to various professionals. Though short, this text incorporates a wealth of sources. Some are strictly voice pedagogy, some strictly voice science, with others falling somewhere in between. Some of the references are as new as 1998; others come from the 1700s.

I had no desire to read this book when it was sent to me for review, assuming it would have little relevance for me and would be a tiresome read. I was wrong. This text should be of interest to anyone concerned about voice, particularly those who work with professional or amateur singers. The book is well organized and very easy to read. Some knowledge of voice science and singing terms is assumed. The author does an excellent job of applying voice science to the standard methods of singing instruction. Her review of the terminology and arguments surrounding vocal register is particularly good. The chapter on vocal health includes valuable tidbits in areas such as hydration, illness, vocal misuse, medications, and hormonal influences. The book ends with well-supported arguments for increased inclusion of voice science information in the singing teacher's repertoire.

The author has packed quite a lot into this well-written little book. It would be a valuable reference for any speech-language pathologist who works with singers or is interested in learning more about the singing voice.