Fundamentals of great vocal technique : the teachings of Michael Trimble

Trimble's book will enlighten readers about vocal technique as taught by the masters of Bel Canto and practiced by the greatest singers of the 19th and 20th centuries. His insights are based on a pedagogic foundation of personal experience, interviews with famous singers, and historically significant texts. His method, based on the principle of appoggio (breath management) through contrary motion, has stood the test of time and will help current and future singers make the most of their vocal gifts. The book is full of wonderful anecdotes about famous singers and their vocal techniques ranging from Enrico Caruso and Luciano Pavarotti, to Lilli Lehmann and Zinka Milanov--many of whom were his personal friends, colleagues, and mentors, and with whom he shared the opera stage around the world. "I have not had problems of any kind with my voice since beginning my studies with Mr. Trimble...He coached me on how to produce the proper Southern accent for the role I played in the film Steal Magnolias...But most importantly, he helped me to develop true stamina in my voice, which has enabled me to rehearse for endless hours and to perform every day of the week during long runs in live theatre...Mr. Trimble has proved to me and to many others over a long period of time that he is a voice teacher of great ability and a human being of great worth." -- Olympia Dukaris, Academy Award-Winning Actress "Michael Trimble has distinguished himself both as a leading operatic tenor and as one of this country's finest and most successful teachers of singing" -- George Shirley, Metropolitan Opera Tenor, Joseph Edgar Maddy distinguished university emeritus professor of voice, University of Michigan