Jazz Singing: A Guide to Pedagogy and Performance

by Tish Oney

Overview

Tish Oney merges the worlds of jazz and classical singing in a comprehensive guide for those teaching and singing jazz. Legendary jazz singers’ performance strategies are discussed providing unique insights.

Jazz Singing combines jazz stylization and improvisational techniques with classic voice pedagogy to outline a method that builds the jazz voice upon a strong foundation of proper alignment, efficient breathing, healthy phonation, a clear understanding of vocal anatomy, and the physics of singing. Various strategies to enhance improvisation and artistry are presented, and mindful coordination of all aspects is emphasized to create authentic, healthy jazz singing in this groundbreaking book.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781538128459
Publisher:	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
Publication date:	02/15/2022
Pages:	318
Product dimensions:	6.05(w) x 9.06(h) x 0.78(d)

About the Author

Tish Oney has headlined with symphony orchestras, big bands, and jazz combos throughout the world and has recorded five albums as leader. Possessing a doctorate in jazz from University of Southern California, this internationally acclaimed jazz singer, musicologist, arranger, composer, and conductor has served several institutions as professor and visiting artist. She writes a column titled “Anatomy of a Standard” for All About Jazz and authored Peggy Lee: A Century of Song.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Chapter 1 - The Science of Singing

Anatomy of the Larynx

Anatomy of the Breathing Mechanism

Anatomy of the Ear and Hearing Protection

The Physics of Singing

Chapter 2 - Vocal Health and Hygiene

Habits to Cultivate for a Healthy Voice

Daily Check-In and Warm-Up

The Healthy Speaking Voice

Sleep Hygiene

The Voice Care Team

Hearing Protection

Environmental Considerations

Voice Problems and Pathologies

Voice Preservation

Chapter 3 - Posture and Alignment

Balance Points in the Skeleton

Coordinating Body Alignment

Singer-Instrumentalists

Benefits of Excellent Posture

Posture Lessons from the Masters

Chapter 4 - Managing the Breath

The Process of Breathing

Applying the Singer’s Breath to Jazz

Helpful Breathing Exercises

Chapter 5 - Phonation, Articulation, and Resonance

Phonation

Articulation

Resonance

Dr. Oney’s Mix Continuum

Chapter 6 - Jazz Style and Ornamentation

Jazz Language

Jazz Across the World

Style in the Voices of Jazz Masters

The Listening Diet

Tools for Teaching Jazz Style

The Bag of Tricks

Chapter 7 - Vocal Improvisation

Melodic Embellishment

Scat Improvisation

Text-Based Improvisation

Vocalese

Lyric Improvisation

Free Improvisation

World Music and Improvisation

Chapter 8 - Phrasing and Expression

Phrase Types

Steps to Learning a Song

Back-Phrasing

Learning Phrasing from the Masters

The Art of Expression

Chapter 9 - Microphone Technique and Vowel Shaping

Basics of Microphone Technique

Types of Microphones

Crossover Work with a Microphone

Navigating the Mix Continuum with a Microphone

Selecting Microphones

Sound Checks

Microphone Technique and Communication

Mic Technique of the Masters

Vowel Purity

Microphones and Articulation

Subtlety is Key

Chapter 10 - Vocal Jazz Ensembles

What is Blend?

Balance

Authentic Style

Instrumentalists as Choir Directors

Solo Voices in a Choral Setting

Vocal Jazz Repertoire

Tips for an Effective Rehearsal

Structuring the Rehearsal

Building the Vocal Jazz Ensemble

Guided Listening to Professional Ensembles

Chapter 11 - Dalcroze Eurhythmics and Voice Pedagogy

Introduction to the Dalcroze Method

Three Pillars of Instruction

Benefits of Studying Dalcroze Exercises

Applications of Dalcroze Exercises in the Applied Studio

Types of Dalcroze Exercises

Application of Dalcroze Exercises in the Vocal Jazz Ensemble

Chapter 12 - Jazz Theory and Instrumental Approaches

Scales and Modes

Chord Progressions and Form

Motivic Improvisation

Thirds, Sevenths, and Extensions

Hemisphericity

Transcription

Chapter 13 - Mindful Singing and Mental Toughness

Pre-Performance Mental Preparation

The Vocal Warmup Routine

McCloskey’s Points of Relaxation

Breathing Exercises

Mindful Practice

Mental Toughness

Chapter 14 - Arranging and Bandleading

The Jazz Singer-Arranger

Constructing a Professional Arrangement

Playing with Styles

Bandleading

Chapter 15 - Artistry and Pedagogy—Putting It All Together

The Complete Singing Artist

The Singer-Entrepreneur

Alternate Paths

A Complete Pedagogy

Artistry as Gestalt

Consistency and Practice

Evolving Artistry Throughout Life

True Artistic Mastery

Appendix: Sample Practice Guide

Teaching the Crossover Singer

Sample Practice Guide Part I: Strengthening Technique

Sample Practice Guide Part II: Expression and Communication

Selected Bibliography

Editorial Reviews

Tish Oney has written a rich resource for singers who perform in any style. It’s complete without being overly technical and appropriately views the entire body as one’s instrument—how it works, keeping it conditioned, reaching maximum results.

Paul Huybrechts

This volume is commendable for aspiring jazz singers because it contains pedagogic and performance tutelage that is based on voice science. Oney does not merely pay lip service to the topic. Instead, the inclusion of voice science is substantive and consistent throughout the volume. Oney encourages jazz singing that is both healthy and authentic. To achieve the former, she elucidates the principles of voice care and use; and to achieve the latter, she urges students to study with acclaimed vocal artists of the genre. She recommends that singers learn from the jazz masters, and refers the reader to specific artists. Moreover, singers of all genres will benefit from this volume. It not only offers an excellent overview of the physiology and function of the voice, but also serves as a compelling introduction to jazz singing and its most notable exponents. It is highly recommended.

Journal of Singing

Tish Oney’s book is thoroughly researched and applies her many years of experience as a competent performer and excellent educator. The analytical approach is useful to every teacher and performer. It is a must-read.

Joe Riposo

This is an invaluable teaching resource and should be a required text in any jazz vocal program. The rare combination of a trained scientist, accomplished musician, experienced pedagogue, and scholar makes Tish Oney uniquely qualified to offer an expert perspective on all aspects of vocal jazz performance and pedagogy. Highly recommended.

Monika Herzig

Jazz Singing is a gold mine of information for teachers and singers alike, and it is a delightfully refreshing addition to the pedagogy of singing. This book promises to make anyone interested in learning more about jazz style, theory, and repertoire, more knowledgeable and confident in their teaching and performing.

Patrice Pastore

This book is an essential tool for every singer’s toolbox and a perfect supplement for lessons. Tish Oney seamlessly moves between clinical and metaphorical language that only a truly devoted student, teacher, and performer of song can do. She clearly understands that every voice is as unique as every individual person.

Nathan Gunn