Improving Lyric Italian Diction for Classical Singers
Thursday 18th December 2025, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (London Time)
This course offers an in-depth exploration of the most frequent pronunciation errors made by classical singers in Italian lyric diction. Designed for both emerging and advanced singers, the course provides a structured and practical approach to mastering Italian pronunciation as used in opera, oratorio, and art song. The course’s principles and exercises are universally applicable to non-native Italian speakers striving for accuracy, elegance, and expressive nuance in performance.
Drawing on my research into common diction pitfalls, participants will engage with the ten most frequent errors identified through qualitative study, professional observation, and collaboration with Italian language experts. These include the mispronunciation of double and single consonants, aspirated “t” and “q” sounds, incorrect formation of l and ʎ, inconsistent use of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), and confusion between open and closed vowels (e/ɛ and o/ɔ). The course will also unpack the finer linguistic principles of raddoppiamento sintattico, assimilation, and syllabic stress, helping singers understand how these affect meaning, rhythm, and legato phrasing in Italian text setting.
Through guided IPA training, listening exercises, and coached performance practice, students will learn to diagnose and correct diction errors typical of English and other language backgrounds. Each session integrates live vocal examples drawn from operatic and song repertoire—including works by Mozart, Verdi, Puccini, Caldara, and Caccini—linking theory directly to performance.
By the end of the course, participants will:
- Demonstrate accurate pronunciation of Italian vowels and consonants in sung contexts.
- Apply IPA as a reliable tool for analysing and correcting diction.
- Understand the relationship between phonetics, musical phrasing, and textual meaning.
Ultimately, this course equips singers to approach Italian repertoire with linguistic confidence and artistic authenticity!
🏷️ Price £30 (UK VAT inclusive)
🎥 Recording automatically sent to all who book (even if you cannot attend live)
▶️ Rewatch as many times as you like
📜 Certificate of attendance available
Professor Conroy Cupido
Prof Conroy Cupido completed a BMus at Stellenbosch University, an MMus and Artist Certificate at Southern Methodist University (Dallas, Texas), and became the first South African to earn a Doctorate in Vocal Performance from the University of North Texas (2009). In 2024, he obtained an MA in Positive Psychology from North-West University with distinction.
Attend this course for as little as £22 as part of the Voice Professional Training CPD Award Scheme.
Learn MoreSorry, this is an archived short course...
We have plenty of upcoming short courses coming soon. See details of some of them below or look at the full list of short courses.
Monday 6th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Friday 10th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Monday 13th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Friday 17th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Monday 20th July 2026
7:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Friday 24th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
Certificate in Foundations of Vocology with Adam Roberts
Adam Roberts
This 30-hour Vocology Cohort Intensive provides a comprehensive overview of basic vocal anatomy, physiology, and theories of voice production & perception, fundamentals of vocal health, pathology, evaluation, performance, and habilitation of the speaking and singing voice, and a survey of research, resources, and professional opportunities. Each week, advanced students contribute to cohort-centred learning with additional resources, discussion facilitation, and critical analysis. The course assessment will also be useful for those who wish to prepare for the PAVA recognised designation.
Friday 17th July 2026
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
(London Time)
Singing at First Sight: Improve your Sight-singing!
Dr David Cane
Reading music at sight is an invaluable asset for singers and singing teachers of all genres. Whether you want to ace auditions, learn repertoire faster, or expand your versatility as an educator, this short course hosted by Dr David Cane offers practical, evidence-based strategies to build your skills and broader musicianship. No formal prerequisites are required, though a basic familiarity with standard music notation is beneficial.
Tuesday 21st July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
Understanding and Working With Low Self-Esteem in Voice Users
Dr Luke Aldridge-Waddon
Join Dr Luke Aldridge-Waddon as he introduces a cognitive-behavioural approach to understanding and working with low self-esteem. Low self-esteem is associated with a range of psychological and physical health difficulties, including issues relevant to voice disorders and vocal performance. The presentation will first define low self-esteem before discussing psychological factors relevant to its development and maintenance. Luke will review existing research which characterises low self-esteem as a commonly reported experience across voice use and voice disorder groups, with some suggestions for how this might then be approached within a voice clinic and voice coaching context.