Book excerpt: An essential guide to how the voice works; and how to realize its potential. Concise, accurate, and accessible, The Performer's Voice explains how the voice works and how to use it efficiently. Emphasizing the infinite potential of the human voice, this practical book enables vocal professionals to use their voices effectively to create dynamic performances. Written for people who use their voices every day; from singers, actors, and teachers to trial lawyers, ministers, and radio announcers; The Performer's Voice brings together the basic anatomy, physiology, technique, and performance skills required for effective use of the voice. Simple exercises and observations, designed for busy people to do in a short time, provide practical application. Anatomically correct drawings support concise, direct explanations. Taking a balanced, common sense approach, this book provides simple guidelines for using the voice healthily and imaginatively. For anyone who relies on the voice for a living,The Performer's Voice provides the essential tools for confident, imaginative and compelling performances.