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Bel Canto: A Performer's Guide. Robert Toft. Oxford University Press, 2013. 263 pages. Reviewed by Holly M. Zagaria.
I recently purchased a juicer, and with terrific excitement, I have thrust numerous pieces of fruits and vegetables into my newest kitchen acquisition. I am amazed at how this machine can take bulk fruits and vegetables and distill them into the most palatable drinks imaginable, filled with vitamins easily absorbed into the body, creating a feeling of strength and lightness, all the while knowing that I have done something of great value for myself. I feel exactly the same when reading Robert Toft's book Bel Canto: A Performer's Guide. Accompanying the book is a companion website with links to musical examples that demonstrate examples of vocal techniques offered in the book. This is a must-read for singers, teachers of singing, vocal coaches, and conductors. It is a multi-level how-to manual of singing.
Toft, who is professor of musicology and popular music studies at Western University, London, Ontario, defines bel canto as "a comprehensive label for...