Diction
Diction means the way you say or sing words. If you are talking to someone and you don’t speak clearly, they won’t understand what you are saying. It is the same with singing, so it is important to express each word clearly as you sing.
As mentioned in lesson 1 you will need to stand up straight and relaxed, and aim your voice straight ahead when you sing, so that your voice comes out with a clear, open sound.
The sounds of the words are formed by movements of your mouth, lips and tongue as the air leaves your mouth. Listen carefully as you sing, to make sure you are pronouncing all the words or syllables clearly. When you do this, you are singing with good diction.
Once again, there are two ways to practice this song. The first time you go through it, sing the words written under the notes (called the lyrics) and the second time, sing the sol-fa syllables (do, re, and mi).
Remember to sing each new song along with the recording so you can hear how your part fits with the other instruments.
The Whole Note
This is a whole note. It lasts for four beats. There is one whole note in one bar of 4 * time.
