The Bel Canto Style of Singing: Its Development and Decline
This is a preliminary investigation of Bel Canto, a 17th century singing technique used by singers of this time period to exemplify beautiful singing. This study will explore the various techniques and applications of building the vocal instrument by defining the Bel Canto style of singing and tracing its development and decline. The importance of the Bel Canto style to contemporary singers and teachers will be evaluated through a survey given to Professors of Music at the University of Illinois and graduate students with a concentration in voice. Examples of Bel Canto exercises that illustrate the significance of this approach to vocal technique will be included. An overview of the career of soprano, Maria Callas will be examined to demonstrate the longevity and character of the Bel Canto style of singing.
School:
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Department:
Vocal Performance
Research Advisor:
Ollie Watts Davis
Department of Research Advisor:
Music, Voice Division
Year of Publication:
2002