Donald R. Mathis
About the Book Melodic Sculpturing is intended to provide a comprehensive, developmental approach to vocal instruction for the teacher and for a serious singer. The contents are based on the author’s professional experience as a singer and teacher of singing and on the writings of many great teachers of the past and present. The book addresses the physiology of the voice, psychology of voice production, relevant acoustics, and corrections for vocal faults. It also deals with diction, breath management, and vibrato prognosis. Suggestions for using technology as an objective visual tool in voice instruction are included in an entire chapter on the topic. A major and unique portion of the book presents a subject regularly omitted from textbooks on vocal production - interpretation and style. The author presents 34 'principles' of melodic practices that may enhance composers’ and poets’ intentions, while providing greater interest and involvement for the listener. It is like an encyclopedia for teaching students and for learning to sing well.This inspiring and encouraging volume is filled with documentation from vocal masters of two centuries and many apropos quotations that bolster the interest for the reader. Nearly 100 vocal examples (VEs) are identified and coded in the chapters. They are available at www.MelodicSculpturing.com for downloading. Two accompanying 1-semester workbooks geared for voice classes, the private studio, and a singer’s personal use are published separately. 3
