Frequent Italian lyric diction mistakes made by classical singers

Abstract

This article examines the most frequent mistakes in Italian lyric diction made by classical singers. Although this is written in a South African context, the information provided may be benefi cial to singers and teachers in other countries as well. With this article I hope to provide a tool for assisting with the teaching and learning of Italian lyric diction in various academic institutions. Helpful rules and linguistic principles are discussed as described in various diction sources. I identified and assimilated the most frequent mistakes via qualitative research, based on personal experience, observation, interaction and interviews with experienced authorities on Italian lyric diction. OPSOMMING: In hierdie artikel word die mees algemene foute in Italiaanse liriese diksie, soos deur klassieke sangers begaan, ondersoek. Alhoewel die artikel vanuit ‚n Suid-Afrikaanse konteks geskryf is, mag die inligting wat verskaf word ook van nut wees vir onderwysers en sangers in ander lande. Ek hoop om met hierdie artikel ‚n instrument te verskaf wat die onderrig en leer van Italiaanse liriese diksie in akademiese instellings sal vergemaklik. Nuttige reëls en taalkundige beginsels, soos in verskeie diksie-bronne beskryf, word bespreek. Deur middel van kwalitatiewe navorsing, gebaseer op persoonlike ervaring, waarneming, interaksie en onderhoude met ervare kenners, het ek die mees algemene foute geïdentifi seer en geassimileer.