The Singer's Guide to Complete Health

The Oxford Handbook of Local and Regional Democracy in Europe analyses the state of play of democracy at the subnational level in the 27 member states of the EU plus Norway and Switzerland. It places subnational democracy in the context of the distinctive Anglo, the French, the German and Scandinavian state traditions in Europe asking to what extent these are still relevant today. The Handbook adapts Lijphart's theory of democracy and applies it tothe subnational levels in all the country chapters. A key theoretical issue is whether subnational (regional and local) democracy is derived from national democracy or whether it is legitimate in its own right. Besides these theoretical concerns it focuses on the practice of democracy: the roles of political partiesand interest groups and also how subnational political institutions relate to the ordinary citizen. This can take the form of local referendums or other mechanisms of participation. The Handbook reveals a wide variety of practices across Europe in this regard. Local financial systems also reveal a great variety. Finally, each chapter examines the challenges facing subnational democracy but also the opportunities available to them to enhance their democratic systems. Among thechallenges identified are: Europeanization, globalization, but also citizens disaffection and switch-off from politics. Some countries have confronted these challenges more successfully than others but all countries face them. An important aspect of the Handbook is the inclusion of all the countries of East andCentral Europe plus Cyprus and Malta, who joined the EU in 2004 and 2007. This is the first time they have been examined alongside the countries of Western Europe from the angle of subnational democracy.Anthony Jahn, MD, internationally-acclaimed for his work as an "opera doctor" with some of the most prestigious opera companies in the world, offers a thorough and comprehensible guidebook on all aspects of health and disease that affect the voice. A vital tool for singers, voice instructors, and choral directors without formal medical training, The Singer's Guide to Complete Health empowers vocal performers to take charge of their own minds and bodies.Along with a full range of experts, Jahn provides advice about the various health disorders that affect professional well-being as well as remedies to the most important and common health problems that singers face in their careers. Jahn has invited a diverse group of health care specialists and music professionals to share their expertise and tips with singers and instructions. The chapters cover a broad range of topics, including psychological well-being, age-related changes, travel, diet, and exercise, accompanied by easy-to-follow illustrations, diagrams and charts. Each chapter provides a clear explanation of the relevant vocal anatomy, as well as detailed descriptions of the most troublesome disorders for singers.The book enables singers to make informed decisions about their own health, and gives guidance on seeking appropriate professional help and self-remedies. It includes numerous suggestions on ways to maintain a healthy vocal lifestyle, not only with traditional methods such as diet, exercise, andAlexander technique, but also holistic approaches such as yoga, tai chi, acupuncture, and Chinese herbs. The book also features assistance for singers who are interested in osteopathic, chiropractic, and craniosacral therapies. A comprehensive blend of professional voice expertise and medical science, The Singer's Guide to Complete Health is an essential addition to bookshelves and medicine cabinets of all professional and aspiring singers and instructors.