Singing 101: Vocal Book & DVD

The pairing of book and DVD instruction removes barriers for singers working independently. Surmani's straightforward approach to vocal fundamentals builds confidence in learners who might feel intimidated by group settings or traditional method books alone. Having every concept modeled on video transforms what could feel like abstract instruction into concrete, immediately applicable knowledge.

The experience mirrors having a patient vocal coach in your own space, ready to start whenever you are. Each lesson builds systematically, so progress feels tangible and achievable from the very first session. The combination of written instruction and visual demonstration creates an unusually clear pathway for understanding how your voice actually works.

This resource serves absolute beginners who want to develop a vocal foundation without the expense or scheduling demands of private lessons. It works well for self-directed learners, young singers in non-music households, or anyone seeking to understand their voice before choosing more advanced study. Solo singers of any age can move through the material at their own pace while building the confidence to tackle their favorite songs.

• Watch the DVD demonstration first before working through each lesson in the book. Seeing the technique performed helps your voice understand what the text describes.
• Return to the vocal exercises multiple times across different days rather than trying to master everything in one sitting. Your voice needs recovery time to build strength and muscle memory.
• Use a mirror while practicing the exercises shown on the DVD. Visual feedback helps you match the physical setup and posture demonstrated by the instructor.

Offer this to singers in your program who lack private instruction or who want to strengthen their fundamentals between lessons. Parents and students can use it as summer maintenance or as a bridge resource between group choir and private voice study. It also serves well for beginning instrumentalists who are picking up voice as a secondary study and need accessible, systematic introduction.

• breath control and proper diaphragmatic breathing
• vowel shapes and clear diction
• pitch accuracy and ear training
• basic music reading applied to vocal study
• vocal warm-ups and exercise technique
• posture and physical alignment for singing
• confidence in solo singing without accompaniment