The beginner, however, must not be discouraged, because at the outset, he finds it no very easy task to gain even a partial control over the various groups of muscles which govern the vocal organs. At first the muscular motions in singing are slow, and their combinations difficult and ill executed. He must remember, that the various movements of his body — which, at an early period of his existence, were impossible, but which he now executes with such ease and precision, and by means of which every occupation in life is carried on — are the results of education and practice; and as he learned to walk, and talk, so must he learn to sing; with this difference, however; that where as a child, having no experience of its own to commence with, and not being able to avail itself of the experience of its elders, is compelled to educate itself; a man can at once place himself en rapport with those who are already proficient in the art he intends to study; and, through them, obtain clear ideas on the subject, which speedily enables him to economize his forces, and to correctly direct his energies, thus avoiding a repetition of many of childhood’s mishaps.

Barraclough, Arthur. “Observations on the physical education of the vocal organs.” (1876).