The Perfect Blend: Over 100 Seriously Fun Vocal Warm-Ups.

* The Perfect Blend: Over 100 Seriously Fun Vocal Warm-Ups, by Timothy Seelig. Music Sales Corp. (445 Bellvale Rd., P.O. Box 572, Cester, NY 10918), 2005. 158pp. $24.95.

In The Perfect Blend, Timothy Seelig, has compiled a comprehensive collection of vocal warm-ups that engage voice, body and mind. Although intended for choral warm-ups, including many that require two singers to execute, voice teachers will find this book a handy resource of familiar and innovative exercises that provide healthy and imaginative training. Seelig also shares his leadership and organizational skills necessary to build and sustain a successful choral program.

The book is divided into three parts: "The Voice," "The Choir" and a wonderful appendix. In the introduction, Seelig prepares us for what is to come--a refreshing and frank discussion of his sensible approach to vocal and choral development ("It is not a book on voice science. No muscles or ligaments.") Part one, "The Voice," lays out exercises designed to prepare the various "parts" of the vocal instrument, such as posture, motor/breathing, vibrator/folds, registers and resonators, for the rehearsal. Each chapter begins with a straightforward sketch of the "part" in discussion. Here it is obvious that Seelig has expertise in the science of singing, but he concentrates on practical information as he proceeds with the The pages are filled with photographs and descriptions presented in a clear and entertaining manner. Several of the warm-ups engage the full body (the bowling octave, the swimming breath) and many engage parts of the body, all helpful to energizing weary choristers who bring the trials of the day into rehearsal.

Part two, "The Choir," begins with the inevitable question on how to achieve a choral blend of vowels and legato that sounds like "one voice." Seelig offers some very creative and enjoyable exercises that effectively in bring many voice types and colors to a centered sound. The remainder of part two contains reflections on matters we tend to overlook (like ourselves, for example!). Chapter 8 provides several mini-tests to measure not only our knowledge, but our intentions, dedication, practice habits and business savvy. This chapter makes you think about what you have become as a musician/teacher/conductor and how you could rejuvenate yourself. Seelig also discusses rehearsal tips, vocal health, the aging voice, creative programming and promotional ideas.

The appendix is bursting with ideas, tools and templates to help organize and energize your work. Seelig shares sample "theme" programs, memory schedules, rehearsal plan templates, "landscaping" a piece, productivity tools (an instrument by which choir members can voice their opinions, dismay, in a cooperative way) and a musical mishap template.

The Perfect Blend is a hands-on book that never becomes tedious or overwhelming to read. Seelig's humorous and holistic approach to technique makes this book not only a joy to read, but more importantly, reminds us that we are, after all, teaching the person inside the singer. Reviewed by Melanie Dement, NCTM, Newark, Delaware 

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