ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book shows which disciplines contribute to vocal pedagogy and provides its theoretical underpinning. It analyses the pedagogical scene from classical and biblical times to the present day in the Western classical tradition. The book observes that ethical considerations permeate the entire pedagogical process as such, and that they concern, for example, business practice and integrity vis a vis the student and other members of the teaching profession. It focuses on the science concerned with the singing voice includes anatomy, physiology and acoustics which are discussed especially with a view to showing their importance for vocal health and hygiene. The book also explains the voice through the successive stages of human development, paying attention to children's voices, the adolescent voice, and the maturing and ageing voice.
