The choral world is drifting and in need of solutions in relation to one of its most enduring problems - the shortage of male singers. Contemporary Choral Work with Boys offers a radical re-appraisal of the situation based on a unique combination of scholarly work on the sociocultural aspects of young male singing with similar cutting edge work on the physiological. The book provides clear, lucid information on the nature of puberty and later adolescence and the impact these times have upon both the vocal mechanism and the social self. New data answer many questions about whether or not trends in the timing of puberty are causing voices to "break" earlier and how choir directors and singing teachers need to respond. The book contains a significant amount clinical reference material, but the text and presentation is designed to serve primarily as a practical handbook. Thus, readers will be able to access the practical advice readily, whilst having access to more detailed scientific information as and when they need it. Pitched at a level that will appeal to those who have some experience of working with choirs that include young male singers (or would like to include such singers), it should answer questions that such readers will inevitably have through their experience. While Professor Ashley's book will stimulate much debate and no little soul searching, it will encourage organizations associated with choral singing to explore exciting new initiatives to break the deadlock of the "missing males" in choral singing.

The Complete Martial Arts Training Manual is a book/DVD combo designed for anyone who has an interest in the martial arts. Having a broad knowledge of the various techniques of the martial arts gives a martial artist an expanded ability to counteract a variety of attacks and overwhelm an opponent's defenses. In expanding his own martial arts knowledge, Martin shares with the reader his years of experience as a practitioner and teacher. He provides a catalog of the various martial arts being taught worldwide and their strengths and weaknesses. He then covers the basics of hand-to-hand techniques within each of those disciplines, from strikes to ground fighting. Finally, he offers information on the overall health and well being of the martial artist, including important nutritional information and stretching techniques. With an instructional DVD included, The Complete Martial Arts Training Manual is a solid foundation of martial arts for beginners and a key supplement for the veteran martial artist. Chapters include: Learning the Aspects of Fighting--an introductionThe Way of the Warrior--definition of a martial art; limitations of ground fighting; a complete martial artistA Catalog of Martial Arts--Kung fu; Jujutsu (or jiujitsu); Aikido; Judo; Karate; Kickboxing; Taekwondo; Boxing; Wrestling; and moreCombat Basics--fighting ranges; reflex training; basic combat techniquesHand and Elbow Strikes--jabbing punch; hook punch; uppercut; superman punch; and moreDefenses--slip; duck; block; two-handed defenseFoot and Knee Strikes--front kick; roundhouse; tornado kick; flying knee strikeBreak Falling--front break fall; back break fall; side break fall; front rolling break fall; break falling mythsTakedowns--hip throw; shoulder throw; side sacrifice throw; the sprawlLocks and Choke Holds--arm lock; Americana; rear naked choke; cross chokeGround Fighting--shoulder hold; chest hold; guard; passing the guardStretching for the Martial Artist--leg flexibility; arm flexibilityNutrition for the Martial Artist--food pyramid; pre-exercise nourishment; reducing body fat; weight gain program