The Essentials of CoreSinging: A Joyful Approach to Singing and Voice Pedagogy presents an innovative outlook by one of the most important voice pedagogues in modern times. CoreSinging, developed by Meribeth Dayme, offers a universal approach applicable and complementary to any style, system, or level of singing—the ultimate result transforms fear into joy and ease. For the first time, Cynthia Vaughn and Matthew Hoch have compiled and edited this culminating work of Meribeth Dayme.
CoreSinging is formed on five elements present in all stages of singing from beginner to professional: energy, awareness, imagination, practice, and performance. Concepts of energy—physical, metaphysical, mental, emotional, psychological, psychic, and spiritual—help singers transform themselves, their sound, and performance into an experience of healing. Contributors offer case studies and targeted strategies for further implementation and select writings of Dayme are also included.
Meribeth Dayme (1938–2019) has given master classes in singing and anatomy throughout the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. She is the author of The Singing Book, The Performer’s Voice, and Dynamics of the Singing Voice.
Cynthia Vaughn is a respected singer, voice teacher, clinician, and coauthor of The Singing Book. A certified CoreSinging instructor, she has a decades-long association with Dayme and intimate knowledge of her methods.
Matthew Hoch is professor of voice at Auburn University. He is the series editor for the So You Want to Sing book series, associate editor of voice pedagogy for the Journal of Singing, and a certified CoreSinging instructor.
Foreword, Nicola Harrison
Eureka Moment
Editorial Remarks, Matthew Hoch
Introduction, Cynthia Vaughn
Part I – The Elements of CoreSinging
Chapter 1: Basic Principles of CoreSinging
Chapter 2: Energy
Chapter 3: Awareness
Chapter 4: Imagination
Chapter 5: Practice and Performance
Chapter 6: A Summary of Key Elements of CoreSinging
Part II – Case Studies: Practical Application of CoreSinging
Chapter 7: Why CoreSinging?, Rachel Velarde
Chapter 8: The Body Knows How to Sing, Michael Hill
Chapter 9: A House with Four Rooms, Elizabeth Blades
Chapter 10: Using CoreSinging with Children, Teens, and Tweens, Aimee Woods
Chapter 11: Organized Fun, Patricia Rooney
Part III – Selected Writings
Meribeth Dayme: A Biographical Sketch, Susanne Bunch Hill
Spring Birthday Walk (unpublished 1986 poem)
A Little Book About Singing (2006)
Creating Confidence: How to Develop Your Personal Power and Presence (rev. 2006)
The Incredible Shrinking Singer: Rebuilding Your Confidence (1999), Cynthia Vaughn
Suggestions for Further Reading (Meribeth’s Recommended Reading List)
About the Editors and Contributors
This is a wonderful, important book for those of us fortunate to have known Meribeth, and it is truly foundational for any lover of the human voice—a seminal contribution to vocal pedagogy. Indeed, it is a book for the human journey with much wisdom. The reflections of the contributors are fresh and illuminating. — Susan Yarnall Monks, president, European Voice Teachers Association
A perfect, sincere, and respectful reflection of the CoreSinging approach. The case studies confirm just how important this work is. Meribeth Dayme and her wisdom are immortalized in this book—like her, it’s a game changer. — Lisa Perks, teacher, coach, and creator of Right to Sing
This should be required reading for every budding voice teacher or teacher who is burnt out and needs a shot of renewal, and the “Basic Principles of CoreSinging” should be framed and put on every teacher and student’s wall. — Mark Crayton, professor of voice, Roosevelt University
Meribeth Dayme’s pioneering legacy is now distilled in this volume to pass on to future generations. All the best instincts and concepts about how to successfully give confidence to and inspire students are laid out with clarity. — David Playfair, professor of voice, Brandon University
