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CHAPTER IX |
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CONCEPTS OF DICTION |
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D
efinition* la defining diction, it must be borne in mind that language is a synthesis of differentiated vocal and non-vocal sound patterns into larger syllabic and verbal groupings that can be standardized as to meaning. Thus language becomes a means of symboli-zation and communication of ideas and diction is the process of manufacturing these symbols out of vocal raw materials. (W) The diction of singing, therefore, may be defined as the clear and accurate formation, production and projection of the elementary sounds of language, and the combining of these sounds into luent sequentiai patterns that are suited to the tonal expression of the words and music of a song. [Haywood 237, II, p. 31; 1101:278, p. 31]
Diction comprises three fundamental processes that are significant to the teacher of singing. These are called articulation, enunciation and pro-nunciation; terms that are often loosely interchanged in common usage. In a more exact differentiation of terminology the following distinctions might be made, based on dictionary definitions and on the Outline of Theory issued by the American Academy of Teachers of Singing. [10]
1. Articulation is a formative or moulding process, involving organic mechanisms of the vocal tract that indpiently shape the phonetic patterns of the language. This is accomplished by varying the positions, conformations and movements of the vocal organs so as to provide favorable channels of communication for luent oral utterance. Thus, bRsic breath and vocal substance are differentiated into intelligible vowel and consonant symbols. pDrev 148; Scott 501, p. 99]
2. Enunciation is a projective* dynamic or energizing process whereby vocal soaancy or audibility is applied to the vowels and consonants articulated, for purposes of communication to a listener.
5. Ptommmchtim is an integrative or combining process whereby vowel and consonant sounds are united into larger rhythmic groupings called syllable^ words and phrases. Thus are the elementary sounds of the language finally shaped into the words of song. |
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