The Singer's Guide to German Diction

The Singer's Guide to German Diction is the essential foundation for a complete course in German diction for singers, vocal coaches, choral conductors, and anyone wishing to learn to learn the proper pronunciation of High German. Written by Valentin Lanzrein and Richard Cross, who each have years of experience on stage, in the voice studio, and in the diction classroom, it provides an all-encompassing and versatile reference for the rules of German diction and their exceptions.

Featuring an easily navigable format that uses tables and charts to support a visual understanding of the text, this guide allows the reader to find information on diction rules and quick help with the formation of each sound. It also places an emphasis on exceptions to the rules, which are crucial in learning the proper pronunciation of any language. Exceptions are not only provided with the diction rules, but are also gathered in a specific section for ease of reference. A glossary of difficult words, names, and exceptions is provided in the appendix, along with a section on Latin pronounced in the German manner.

Extensive pronunciation exercises, as well as IPA transcription worksheets and short examples from the vocal literature, are used for practical application of the diction rules, and feature musical exercises drawn from art song, opera, and oratorio. The book's companion website supplements these musical exercises with high-quality audio clips recorded by leading professional singers, providing an invaluable resource for independent study. A comprehensive companion for teachers, students, and singers alike, The Singer's Guide to German Diction brings German diction to life through its well-structured system of practice and reference materials.

Dr. Valentin Lanzrein is an active performer, ardent voice pedagogue, and native German speaker. He has held positions at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the DePauw University School of Music. He currently serves as Associate Professor of Music and Coordinator of the Graduate Voice Program at the Soochow University School of Music in Suzhou, China.

For nearly twenty years Richard Cross was the leading bass-baritone of the Frankfurt Opera in Germany. From 1958 to 1993 he was leading bass at New York City Opera. Mr. Cross has recorded for RCA, CBS-Masterworks, London, and Westminster. He has taught at Mannes College of Music, SUNY Stonybrook, and Juilliard School. Mr. Cross currently serves on the faculty of the Yale School of Music.