Chapter I: Preface

The value of this little book, as the reader will soon discover, depends less upon my own work than upon the large number of choirmasters whose experience I have been fortunate enough, directly or indirectly, to lay under contribution. The conditions of the choir-trainer's work vary, in an endless way, according to his surroundings and opportunities. And it is just when work becomes difficult that contrivances and hints are most fruitfully evolved. Hence I have given in great detail the experiences of many correspondents, and some of the most useful suggestions for ordinary church choir work will be found to proceed from writers holding no great appointment, but seeking quietly and unostentatiously to produce good results from poor material.

In view of a second edition, I shall be pleased to receive letters from readers who have further experiences to offer.

J. S. C.

_June_, 1891.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I. PAGES The Healthfulness of Singing 1-5

CHAPTER II. Management of the Breath 6-7

CHAPTER III. The Art of Managing Choir Boys 8-11

CHAPTER IV. Voice Training 12-22

CHAPTER V. Information on Voice-Training, collected by the Salisbury Diocesan Choral Association 23-26

CHAPTER VI. Pronunciation in Singing 27-28

CHAPTER VII. Singing by Ear and by Note 29-30

CHAPTER VIII. Flattening, and Singing out of Tune 31-39

CHAPTER IX. On the Training of Boys' Voices 40-48

CHAPTER X. The Special Difficulties of Agricultural Districts 49-58

CHAPTER XI. Notes on the Practice of various Choirmasters in Cathedrals, &c. 59-68

CHAPTER XII. Notes on the Practice of various Choirmasters in Parish Churches 69-74

CHAPTER XIII. Alto Boys 75-89

CHAPTER XIV. Schools for Choristers 90-98

CHAPTER XV. Concert Songs for Boys 99-103