An indispensable guide for modern singers, this volume provides an in-depth insight into authentic 19th century vocal instruction. In her thorough treatment of the subject, Mme. Damoreau - who had played leading roles in operas by Rossini, Auber, Spontini and Meyerbeer, and had taught at the Paris Conservatoire for 22 years - offers numerous exercises with instructions for their effective use. Studies for scales, turns and trills, vocalises, solfeggio styles, and other exercises assist in training the voice, teaching sight-reading, and ensuring a clear and firm articulation of vowels and consonants without displacing the voice. The book concludes with an array of virtuoso passages, cadenzas and embellished passages from the author's own operatic repertoire.