How To Sing

How to Sing by Lilli Lehmann, one of the most iconic dramatic sopranos of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is a definitive and in-depth manual on the art and science of vocal technique. This book serves both as an instructional guide and a philosophical discourse on the nature of singing, breath control, vocal placement, and resonance, emphasizing the physiological, artistic, and technical aspects of vocal production. Lehmann offers meticulous detail on each element of the singing process: Breathing techniques and the role of diaphragm control Vocal resonance and the significance of nasal/head placement Tongue, lip, mouth, and throat positioning for optimal sound Vocal registers and how to equalize and extend range Exercises to develop control, expression, and vocal agility The book goes beyond technique, addressing performance mindset, public expression, interpretation, and even posture and practice etiquette. Unique sections include deep physiological insights, making it invaluable for teachers and advanced vocal students alike. Her reflections also include critiques of white voices, tremolo, and language-specific articulation, especially in Italian and German singing traditions. More than just a singing manual, this is a timeless treatise on the soul of the voice, written by a master vocalist who performed on the world’s greatest opera stages. The blend of science, art, and experience makes this a cornerstone for serious vocal training.