
Head First: The Language of the Head Voice: A Concise Study of Learning to Sing in the Head Voice First Edition
Author(s): Denes Striny (Author)
- Publisher: Hamilton Books
- Publication Date: 23 Feb. 2007
- Edition: First Edition
- Language: English
- Print length: 172 pages
- ISBN-10: 0761836713
- ISBN-13: 9780761836711
Book Description
In this his first book, Striny confronts and explains the universal problem in singing today. This problem is at the center of an important dilemma in the world of opera today-namely, where have all the great operatic voices gone? Striny dissects the problem and offers the solution, which is a return to singing in the Head Voice, the only true operatic sound. For the past sixty years, the knowledge that there are thirty-two muscles, bones, ligaments, and sinewy masses of tissue located around the larynx led teachers and students to chase this anatomical knowledge in search of answers to vocal theories. However, they have not learned the basic fundamental truth-those who sing in the head voice are the only true operatic voices.
The late Birgit Nilsson, international opera legend and long-time friend, mentor, and teacher to Striny, shares her insights with Striny and the reader throughout the book. Head First is a must for teachers, students, professional singers, and opera lovers who will gain valuable insight into the voice of opera.
Editorial Reviews
Review
The book is remarkable, everything you write on the Head Voice is interesting and good. Thanks! — Christa Ludwig, German opera legend, Mezzo-Soprano
I am impressed with the clarity of his thoughts and the wisdom of his ideas. His book is an important addition to the field of vocal pedagogy and it is especially timely today when the art of good sining is limited to so few people. — Michael Cordovana, Dallas Opera – 25 years, Retired
WOW! I must say that you have done a fabulous job….A great piece of work. — Birgit Nilsson, Swedish opera legend, Soprano. (b. 1918 – d.2005)
And I am sorry to say…I spoiled what could have been a successful career with wrong ideas…with the assistance of teachers that made that happen. When I read your book, I could…remember what my voice had wanted to do and was able to do when everything felt easy and joyful. Well, it”s too late for a career, but it”s not too late for searching and (returning) to something that brought so much joy and happiness. — Rolf Knapper, Hedmark University College
I am so excited by the principles that Mr. Striny puts forth in his book that I have incorporated them into my own teaching and am recommending him and his book to everyone who is serious about ”singing smart” and having a long, healthy and prosperous singing career. Finally I can say ”Thank You” for finding the way. — Carmen Balthrop, Chair, Voice/Opera Division, School of Music, University of Maryland
What I”ve read is always engaging, clearly expressed, and well phrased-a reader wants to read on. You have much to be proud of. — Peter G. Davis, Music Critic
…passionate and direct. Vocal students and teachers will have much to chew on, and even part-time opera fans will find food for thought. — Joseph Dalton
Striny neatly encapsulates his directives for singing…the exercises, and Striny”s directions, are excellent…What Striny has to say…will resonate with pedagogues who wonder why there are fewer singers with long careers. — Debra Greschner, Lecturer of Voice at Lamar University in Beaumont, TX
I consider your book a masterpiece in the genre of vocal literature…Your book should be required reading for all voice students and voice faculties across America. — Robin Hendrix
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