Α Young Person’s Guide to Vocal Health

Olivia Sparkhall

Compton Publishing, 2022

58 pages, full colour

ISBN 978-1-909082-71-7

Reviewed by Devora Kiagiadaki

 

‘Α Young Person’s Guide to Vocal Health’ offers young artists a comprehensive and enjoyable insight into voice and voice care.

The book’s layout is smartly organised based on the colour key coding illustrated in the introduction.

Starting with the introduction, I found the ‘My Voice Matters Flowchart’ a clever tool; it leads a young reader through questions and answers that could help them identify what might be wrong with their voice, and directs them to the relevant chapter.

In the first chapter, the basics of voice mechanism are explained so the reader can comprehend the basics of vocal health. Chapter 2 comprehensively describes a proper warm-up daily routine with essential tips to prepare one’s body for singing, including breathing and voice exercises. Although well-presented and explained, they should be used as a supplement to the instruction of the reader’s teacher/vocal coaches’, especially for the younger students.

Chapter 3 explains the importance of hydration to vocal health with scientifically based evidence. Next, the “four key elements to staying healthy form a virtuous circle” chart illustrates the key elements of voice health, and each is thoroughly detailed. Young artists are given the essential knowledge to prevent upper airway infections, recognise signs of illness, and cope safely with self-care during the recovery period. Particular reference is provided to medication and special medical conditions that can affect the voice. Systemic hydration is comprehensively explained. Finally, ways to release muscle tension are described in detail, which I loved.

Performance anxiety is demystified and well explained in Chapter 6; young performers are encouraged to accept their stage fright and develop coping mechanisms. The next chapter is dedicated to diet and its impact on healthy singing. Special nutrition tips are given with a focus on diet habits that affect the voice.

For teenage readers, there is useful basic information about how the voice is affected by the hormonal changes that come with puberty: growth in the body generally and the voice box in particular, and during the menstrual cycle.

In addition to tips for maintaining a healthy voice, Chapter 9 includes information on  the harmful voice habits and what not to do, as well as advice about eating disorders, posture, alcohol, smoking, and drug abuse.

In the final chapter, the role of background noise and the effect of environmental conditions on voice are explained.

Overall, this book is a handy read for young artists and performers. I enjoyed the pleasant and friendly language, as well as the colourful illustrations and artwork. The guidelines can be used as a reference read by voice therapists, voice teachers, and ENTs. As a medical doctor, I appreciate the fact that every suggestion and advice is scientifically and evidence-based. They are presented simply and comprehensively; however, to be safely used, young children and teenagers should have at least basic voice knowledge and training. Moreover, the textbook serves as a guide, providing a section with supplementary sources for every chapter. Overall, it’s a well-researched and comprehensive book which can help any young performer to create healthy habits, care for their own voice, and know when to seek professional help.

Devora Kiagiadaki is an otolaryngologist based in Crete, Greece.