as a worthy and
conscientious desire not to lead any one into paths which might not be
best for his or her instrument.

In the beginning the student needs advice from an expert master, and is
greatly benefited by knowing how the great singers have achieved. Later
on, when principles have become thoroughly understood, the young singers
learn what is best for their own voices; they, too, become a law unto
themselves, capable of continuing the development of their own voices in
the manner best suited to this most individual of all instruments.

AMERICAN VOICES

We often hear slighting things said of the quality of American voices,
especially the speaking voice. They are frequently compared to the
beauty of European voices, to the disparagement of those of our own
country. Remembering the obloquy cast upon the American voice, it is a
pleasure to record the views of some of the great singers on this point.
"There are quantities of girls in America with good voices, good looks
and a love for music," asserts Mme. Easton. Mme. Hempel says: "I find
there are quantities of lovely voices here in America. The quality of
the American female voice is beautiful; in no country is it finer, not
even in Italy." Herbert Witherspoon, who has such wonderful experience
in training voices, states: "We ought to have our own standards in
judging American voices; until we do so, we will be constantly comparing
them with the voices of foreign singers. The quality of the American
voice is different from the quality found in the voices of other
countries. To my mind, the best women's voices are found right here in
our midst." And he adds: "Any one can sing beautifully who does so with
ease and naturalness, the American just as well as those of any other
country. In fact I consider American voices, in general, better trained
than those of Italy, Germany or France. The Italian, in particular, has
very little knowledge of the scientific side; he usually sings by
intuition."

AMERICAN VOICE TEACHERS

If this be accepted, that American voices are better trained than those
of other countries, and there is no reason to doubt the statement of
masters of such standing, it follows there must be competent instructors
in the art of song right in our own land. Mme. Easton agrees with this.
"There are plenty of good vocal teachers in America," she says, "not
only in New York City, but in other large cities of this great country.
There is always the pr