Bel Canto, Theorical And Pratical Method

Mathilde Marchesi

ISBN 10: 0486223159 / ISBN 13: 9780486223155

Published by Dover Publications Inc., 1970

About this Item

Mathilde Marchesi (1821-1913) was probably the most renowned singing teacher of the late nineteenth century. Herself the pupil of the great Manuel Garcia the Second and the associate of the unsurpassable divas of the middle nineteenth century, she also linked the traditional bel canto teaching method to the beginning of the twentieth century. Early in her career her work was praised enthusiastically by Rossini, who was for a time officially in charge of voice training in France; and toward the end of her career she prepared such superstars as Melba, Calve, Eames, Aida, and others.This volume embodies Madame Marchesi's vocal alphabet, or basic instructions and exercises that formed the voices of her great pupils. An introductory text discusses breathing, attack, registers, and similar matters, while the remainder of the book contains many exercises that teach voice management and projections.Marchesi's book is today even more important than when it first appeared, for it offers the basis for a construction of the bel canto training system. At the time the book appeared, the bel canto system had gone out of fashion in favor of more modern schools that seemed to offer more rapid maturation, voice volume, and dramatics. Today, a more realistic reevaluation has revealed that the bel canto system gave the singer much longer performing life, a more pleasing voice, and far greater musical ability. As Philip Miller states in his introduction, a solidity, a sure technical mastery, an even scale with no register break . . . strong, even and secure trills, their coloratura masterly. In addition, the resurgence of interest in early-nineteenth-century opera renders a work like Marchesi's indispensable to the modern singer.

Seller Inventory # CIN0486223159A

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Bel Canto, Theorical And Pratical Method
• Publisher: Dover Publications Inc.
• Publication Date: 1970
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0486223159
• ISBN 13: 9780486223155
• Binding: Soft cover
• Condition: Fair

About this title

Synopsis

Mathilde Marchesi's book is even more important today than when it first appeared, for it offers the singer a much longer performing life, a more pleasing voice, and far greater musical ability.

A student of Manuel Garcia the Second, Mathilde Marchesi (1821–1913), linked the traditional bel canto teaching methods to the early 20th century. Marchesi presents the "vocal alphabet," or basic instructions and exercises that formed the voices of her own students, who included Melba and Calvé. Her guide discusses breathing, attack, registers, voice management, and projection. As Philip Miller states in his introduction, "a solidity, a sure technical mastery, an even scale with no register break . . . strong, even and secure trills, their coloratura masterly."
 

• Renowned Legacy: Authored by Mathilde Marchesi, one of the most esteemed singing teachers of the late 19th century, connecting traditional bel canto methods with early 20th-century techniques.
• Historical Significance: Marchesi was a pupil of Manuel Garcia the Second and praised by Rossini, showcasing a direct lineage to the great musical influences of her time.
• Comprehensive Vocal Alphabet: Features Marchesi's "vocal alphabet," offering foundational instructions and exercises for developing vocal skills.
• Breathing and Technique: Includes an essential introductory text covering breathing, vocal attack, registers, and other critical vocal techniques.
• Proven Results: Helped shape the careers of legendary singers like Melba, Calvé, and Eames, demonstrating its effectiveness in professional vocal training.
• Longevity and Musicality: Offers techniques that enhance vocal longevity, producing a more pleasing tone and superior musical abilities.
• Timeless Relevance: Continues to be a crucial resource for singers interested in the bel canto style, especially with the renewed interest in early-nineteenth-century opera.
• Technical Brilliance: As highlighted by Philip Miller, it provides the foundation for strong, secure trills, an even scale without register breaks, and masterful coloratura.

Mathilde Marchesi's book Bel Canto: A Theoretical and Practical Vocal Method remains an indispensable resource, bridging historical teaching with timeless techniques to enrich the modern singer's journey.