The Singer's Handbook: A Guide for Aspiring Singers

Beginners should find the section on the mechanics of singing and the summary of what to expect from a voice teacher particularly helpful. Descriptions are clear, direct and reassuringly devoid of gimmicks. Where singing lesions terminology needs to be explained, it is; where exercises can be suggested, they are. Even for those at the more advanced level, the discussion of how best to memorise music, the tricks listed for practising coloratura, for instance, and the model analyses that provides hints on how to approach repertoire, contain useful reminders, if not something new. Of course, the danger of so much good advice is that it could prove overwhelming. This is avoided by regular subheadings, bullet-point format in places and by boxes to highlight the crucial points.....this surprisingly engaging read from Faber Music can be strongly recommended.

Music Teacher Magazine, February 2008

King is one of those responsible for TV reality `talent' shows Musicality and Operatunity, Legge is the director of Opera at the Royal Academy of Music. This book covers the singer's craft from learning music and warming up the throat to stage craft and approaching exams, auditions and career development.....This is a valuable tool for the aspiring pro or the serious hobbyist,

Mi Pro Magazine, October 2007

You can be sure that any book written by Mary King and Anthony Legge will be packed with information. Both have busy, high profile careers and their wide experience of the profession has been brought together in `The Singer's Handbook, A Guide for Aspiring Singers'. Anyone who has been at a presentation given by wither of the authors will know how thought-provoking and lively they are. The style of the book reflects this......

Association Of Teachers Of Singing, Winter 2007