The Singer's Musical Theatre Anthology, Volume 2: Duets : Book Review

"The Singer's Musical Theatre Anthology Volume 2" by Richard Walters is an impressive compilation of musical theatre songs specifically curated for singers. This anthology is a valuable resource for both aspiring performers and seasoned professionals looking to broaden their musical repertoire.

The book encompasses a diverse range of songs from various musical productions, incorporating timeless classics like "All I Ask of You" from "The Phantom of the Opera" to contemporary hits like "Defying Gravity" from "Wicked." A noteworthy aspect of this collection is its inclusivity, with songs tailored for different vocal ranges, ensuring that singers of all voice types can find suitable pieces to showcase their talents.

What sets this anthology apart is the insightful background information provided for each song. By understanding the characters and the circumstances in which the songs are performed, singers gain a deeper comprehension that enhances their interpretation and overall performance. Additionally, the accurate music notation, vocal range indications, and suggested cuts come together to support singers in their preparation, allowing for a smoother and more refined rendition.

Moreover, this anthology offers an ideal platform for singers to showcase their acting skills. The chosen songs not only emphasize vocal abilities but also demand emotional depth and engagement. Singers have the opportunity to experiment with various acting choices, infusing their performances with authenticity and nuance.

In summary, "The Singer's Musical Theatre Anthology Volume 2" is an essential addition to any singer's collection, particularly those interested in musical theatre. With its diverse selection of songs, enlightening background information, and precise music notation, this anthology serves as a valuable resource that undoubtedly elevates a performer's repertoire and abilities on stage.

What are readers saying?

Richard Walters' book "The Singer's Musical Theatre Anthology Volume 2" has garnered a mixed reception from reviewers. With an average rating of 3.88 out of 5 stars based on the opinions of 57 individuals, it presents a diverse range of perspectives.

Many readers regard this book as a valuable resource for individuals interested in musical theatre. The extensive collection of songs from various shows is widely praised, as it offers a broad array of vocal styles for singers to choose from. Reviewers appreciate the accompanying CDs, which enable easy practice and learning of the songs. The book's organization and clear layout also receive commendation for their user-friendly and efficient design.

However, some reviewers express concern over the suitability of the song selections for all voice types. Certain songs are deemed challenging for beginners or limited in range, making it difficult for some singers to find appropriate pieces to perform. Additionally, a few readers note the lack of annotations regarding the character or context of each song, thus hindering singers' ability to fully understand and connect with the material.

Furthermore, the quality of the accompanying CDs proves to be another point of contention. While some songs are performed exceptionally well and serve as excellent reference tracks, others are criticized for their poor production value. Some readers find the recordings lacking in emotion or expression, which detracts from the overall usefulness of the book.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still recommend "The Singer's Musical Theatre Anthology Volume 2" as a valuable resource for singers. They highlight its comprehensive collection of songs from various musicals and the convenience of having accompanying CDs. However, potential buyers should be aware that the book may not cater to all voice types and that the quality of the recordings can vary.

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