English and German Diction for Singers: A Comparative Approach

Description

Lyric diction is a portal to powerful and meaningful vocal performance because diction enables singers to communicate the vision of both the poet and the composer. The study of diction involves learning to perceive speech patterns in different languages, practicing their precise articulation, recognizing this in speech and singing, and developing an awareness of the refined movements of the articulators and their effects on singing tone. In the second edition of English and German Diction for Singers, Amanda Johnston continues her comparative, modernized approach to lyric diction. This comprehensive resource offers a thorough analysis of the German and English languages and includes extensive oral drills, word lists, tables, charts, musical examples, and even tongue twisters. Unique to this publication is the illustration of the rhythmic timing and release of consonants within the International Phonetic Alphabet transcriptions in all musical examples. This book is designed for both undergraduate and graduate courses in German and English lyric diction and is an invaluable resource for classical singers, vocal coaches, and voice teachers alike. Dedication Contents Musical Examples Foreword Preface PART I: INTRODUCTION 1: Elementary Concepts 2: Proficiency in English IPA 3: Proficiency in German IPA PART II: ENGLISH 4: Introduction to English Diction for Singers 5: English Phonemes 6: The Structure of English 7: Characteristic English Phonemes 8: Vowels 9: Glides and Approximants 10: Consonants 11: Advanced Concepts in Diction 12: Common Pitfalls PART III: GERMAN 13: Introduction to German Diction for Singers 14: German Phonemes 15: The Structure of German 16: Characteristic German Phonemes 17: Vowels 18: Consonants 19: Advanced Concepts in Diction 20: Common Pitfalls PART IV: ENGLISH AND GERMAN—COMMON GROUND 21: Commonalities between English and German 22: Legato Singing 23: Close but No Cigar 24: Lyric Diction in Opera 25: Concise History of the English Language Appendix A: Glossary of Phonetic and Anatomical Terms Appendix B: Supplements Appendix C: Suggested Repertoire for Lyric Diction Study Notes Bibliography Removable Flashcard Index