Style in Singing

"S tyle in Singing" by W.E. Haslam is a guide on vocal techniques and artistry written in the early 20th century. The text delves into the principles of vocal style, exploring the elements of effective singing and interpretation. Haslam emphasizes the importance of foundational techniques such as voice emission, technique, style, and repertoire, while highlighting the ways these components harmoniously interplay in vocal performances. The opening of the book introduces the author's motivation to address the lack of comprehensive literature on vocal style, akin to existing works for instrumental music. Haslam discusses the consistent emotional effects that renowned artists can produce through their performances, posing questions about the nature of expression in singing. He outlines the fundamental elements of vocal training, emphasizing the significance of correct voice placement, technique, and personal style, and warns against the pitfalls of inadequate instruction. In establishing a solid foundation for developing a singing career, Haslam argues for the necessity of choosing an appropriate repertoire that resonates with the singer's unique voice and temperament.I f the practical education of the singer be analyzed, it will be found to comprise four fundamental elements: (1) POSE: or Emission of voice; (2) TECHNIQUE: or the discipline of the voice considered as a musical instrument; (3) STYLE: or the application of the laws of artistic taste to the interpretation of vocal music; (4) REPERTOIRE: or the choice, in the literature of vocal music, of works most suited to the voice, temperament and individuality of the particular singer. I have classed these four elements in their relative order. They are, however, of equal importance. Until the Pose and Technique of a voice are satisfactory, attempts to acquire Style are premature. On the other hand, without Style, a well-placed voice and an adequate amount of Technique are incom-plete; and until the singer's education has been rounded off with a Repertoire adapted to his individual capabilities, he is of little practical use for professional purposes.