Can vocal groups having a mixture of talent levels achieve a stunning blend? In Geral Eskelin's opinion, it is not so much a difference in vocal training that prevents vocal blend but rather the mutual disregard for blend and/or the lack of techniques necessary to achieve it. The primary purpose of this book, then, is to identity the elements that contribute to a beautiful choral sound and to provide methods and exercises by which to explore them. The suggestion and ideas ate based on Dr. Eskelin's five decade of experience working with singing groups - both amateur and profession. The exercises are applicable to a wide variety of musical styles - from barbershop quartet to opera chorus - from the theater to the cathedral. Solo singers, as well, will find techniques to enhance the artistry and professionalism of their performances.

Songlist: Blend and Blendability, Approach and Method, Vocal Concepts and Vocabulary, Vowel, Brightness, Resonance, Nasality, Pitch, Density, Loudness, Phrasing, Consensus, "Expressive Tuning"

A number of musical misconceptions are explored and exploded in this humorous and lucid disussion of the relation between the human perception of music and traditional systems of music education. Drawing on his extensive background in the music world, the author marshals an informal yet rigorous logic to guide the reader through the practical experiences and careful thinking that led him to his conclusions. Updated and refined in the light of reader feedback and more recent thinking, nagging questions such as "why does formal musical training often seem irrrelevant to musical success?" are readdressed. Seekers of musical truth stand to profit from this light-hearted assault on some of the more nebulous assumptions of the musical community.

Songlist: Overture, Scales, chords and other things having to do with pitch, Rhythmn, meter and other ideas you can count on, Coda