ABSTRACT
Chapter 2 discusses the importance of singing from historical, social, scientific and health perspectives. It proposes song as a natural phenomenon and a vital human activity. It notes recent educational shifts in education and politics and their influence on composers. It explores relationships between language and music, and contrasted attitudes by some composers. The concept of embodied composition is proposed. Collaboration is proposed as the most effective working method for composers working with singers, with some important examples. It explores the concept of the muse in relation to this. Reflecting on all these aspects, it proposes and analyzes the concept of good vocal writing.
