The acoustical foundations of bel canto

Abstract

In the area of voice instruction, tradition and science are often viewed as being on opposite ends of the spectrum. Pitting science and tradition against each other in a mutually exclusive fashion frequently results in unnecessary confusion, antagonism, and misunderstandings among both students and teachers of singing. However, the traditional teachings of bel canto are not at odds with modern science. In fact, much of the traditional precepts have support in the modern scientific literature. Thus, the purpose of this project is to bring to light the underlying scientific principles present within the traditional teachings of bel canto.