How to learn art songs and arias

How to learn art songs and arias

Step 1 Research the composer

Understanding who the composer is, their musical styling, etc. is important

If singing an aria- research who the character is, what the show is about, and where in the music the aria takes place

Step 2Translate the language

In order to sing it, you must first understand what it is you are singing about!

Step 3Learn the text separately, as a monologue

Singing is already multitasking at its finest. Make it easier on your brain by learning the text first so that you do not have to worry about stumbling over the words. This also gives you the advantage in acting it out.

Step 4Learn the rhythm

There is no need to stumble over pitches and rhythms at the same time. Taking time to learn the rhythm will give you a solid foundation when it comes time to perform

Step 5Practice using a neutral syllable when learning pitch

When learning the pitches, a neutral syllable such as dee makes it easier to focus on the notes themselves without stumbling over the text

Step 6Practice using only the vowels of each word

By taking away the consonants, you are allowing the vowel to receive the emphasis. This concentration allows you to feel the placement of each vowel in each word. For example, the word away would be sung as ah-eh

Step 7Put everything together!

By now, things should be a lot easier to navigate than trying to learn everything at once.

Tips for practicingNow that you have learned everythingseparately and pieced them together, practicesections at a time rather than the entirework every time you practice. For example, in Lascia Chio Pianga, you may wish to work on the A section or start immediately on the B section exclusively. I like to work my hardest section first sometimes. Then when it comes around in the song, it doesnt seem so daunting.