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The Melofonetica Method: A complete guide to clear and expressive Italian diction for singers
By Matteo Dalle Fratte
With a foreword by Sir Mark Elder
BUY NOWWhen singers work in Italian, there's often a disproportionate focus on adjusting vowel timbre to improve diction and achieve an authentic Italian sound. This overlooks the fundamental role of consonants in producing clear, idiomatic and resonant sung Italian in a performance space.
The Melofonetica Method™ is a transformative approach to Italian diction in opera and classical music, based on the phonetics of sung Italian. The product of over a decade of research and coaching, and with proven results on high profile productions and recordings, the method helps singers of all levels and language backgrounds to:
- Get a clear vision of the building blocks of excellent sung Italian
- Cut through complexities and rapidly achieve incisive, idiomatic sung Italian diction
- Enhance vocal quality and breath support through the correct use of consonants
- Strengthen dramatic expression and deliver a convincing performance
- Sing in Italian with greater command, confidence and ease
This book provides a structured approach to teaching and learning Italian lyric diction and will be an invaluable resource for singers, coaches, accompanists, conductors and directors. It includes: 180+ notation examples, 120 vocalising exercises, 4 transcribed arias, access to 340+ audio recordings and fascinating insight into the evolution of Italian as a language built to be sung.
Sir Mark Elder, conductor
“I urge everyone remotely interested in bel canto to embrace this book and dive in!”
Sir Mark Elder and Matteo Dalle Fratte introduce the Melofonetica Method book at ROH Insights: Aida
Sir Mark Elder and Matteo Dalle Fratte discuss working with singers in Italian and the new Melofonetica Method book. Recorded live at the Royal Opera House Insights event on Aida, London, 27 April 2023. Thank you to ROH for permission to share.
Lise Davidsen, soprano
“It’s absolutely wonderful to have the Melofonetica Method to work with.”
Sir John Eliot Gardiner, conductor
“Creates fantastic energy and expression... It's a huge bonus for any interpretation.”
Ramón Vargas, tenor
“Invaluable for all singers looking to achieve an authentic Italian sound.”
Philip White, Head of Opera,
Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
“The Melofonetica Method is clear, concise and consistent – and it works wonders.”

The Melofonetica Method
A transformative approach to Italian diction in opera and classical music based on the phonetics of sung Italian.

Book audio recordings
340+ audio recordings accompanying The Melofonetica Method: A complete guide to clear and expressive Italian diction for singers.

Online learning hub
Improve your sung Italian at your own pace with our growing library of free and premium audio, video and podcast resources.