The Singer/Songwriter's Manual (book/CD)

Mel Bay Publications
Level: Beginning

This book and accompanying audio are a perfect introduction to the world of writing and singing your own songs. You'll learn some basic information on vocal health, breathing, and techniques to help develop your vocal stamina, agility, flexibility and range. The accompanying audio makes practicing the vocal exercises and developing a daily routine easy and accessible. You will also learn the basics of crafting a song through song form, rhyme schemes, lyrical approaches, and how to find your inspiration. An overview of basic guitar chords and how to create your own chord progressions makes it easy to start creating your own songs right away.

Vocal Technique
Guidelines to Vocal Health
Breathing

Vocal Warm-ups
Siren
Ma me mi mo mu
Ha Ha Ha’s
Arpeggios
ABCs

Basics of Chords on Guitar
Guitar Chords
My Little Darling
Wayfaring Stranger

Choosing Chords
Angel Band
Wayfaring Stranger
Ease My Mind

Fundamentals of Songwriting
Verse/Chorus Form
Verse/Chorus/Bridge
Verse/Refrain/Chorus

Lyrics
Imagery/Metaphors
Story/Specifics
Story/Imagery
Theme/Semi-Abstract

Beginnings and Endings
Inspiration