Voicesource Selection: Look Beyond Your Field
Are you a voice nerd? Find out more about other areas of the voice world with the Voicesource “Look Beyond Your Field” selection of five specialist and advanced books.
Phonetics: The Science of Speech
Don’t be put off by the title. This book is easy to read and follow. It give a fantastic grounding in understanding how articulation works and also introduces many of the mysteries that surround phonetics and the world’s languages. This book isn’t written for the performer but is essential reading for any committed voice nerd.
Nerd rating 4/5.
The Voice Clinic Handbook
This probably isn’t a book that many would read from cover to cover. However, there are so many nuggets of magic, elucidation and, most importantly, clear explanation that make this book very special. It’s well written and balanced – although at times it can be a little tough if you are not on top of your basic anatomy and physiology. It also looks impressive on the shelf. You have come of age in your voice journey if you own and can understand this classic book.
Nerd rating 5/5.
The Cambridge Encyclopaedia of The English Language
This is the ultimate coffee table book for the trainee voice nerd. In fact, I challenge even non-voice nerds to resist the appeal of reading at least one or two entries from this well laid-out book. Impressive, full colour, and packed with illustrations and entries ranging from an analysis of tongue twisters to Chronograms!
Nerd rating 4/5.
Anatomy and Physiology for Speech, Language, and Hearing
An excellent book if you want to understand more about vocal physiology. This book is up-to-date and manages to explain some quite complex topics without invoking brain-ache. It includes very clear line diagrams throughout the text and a CD-ROM with the ANIMA software for testing your knowledge of anatomy and physiology. Good to dip in and out of, but also a good read if you are a cover to cover person.
Nerd rating 3.5/5.
Master Handbook of Acoustics
OK. This is a bit of a challenge and at times feels a little like science fiction. And yes, this book contains physics and mathematical equations too, but acoustics is probably the ultimate battle for most voice nerds. Much of the information in this book is aimed at those working in recording studios or similar, so you have to work hard to find the links with your own practice but they are there – even if you have never set foot in a recording studio. If you want to explore the hard science behind sound you couldn’t wish for a more complete reference.
Nerd rating 6/5.
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