Solfège Systems
This lesson is part of the Fundamentals of Twelve-Tone Equal Temperament category. |
Objectives[edit]
- Student will understand the difference between fixed do and moveable do
- Student will understand the difference between moveable do-based and (la)-based systems
- Students will be able to label diatonic melodies (major, minor, and modal) with various solfège systems
- Students will be able to label chromatic melodies with moveable do-based solfege
- Students will learn Kodaly/Curwen handsignals for solmization
- Students will comprehend the benefits and drawbacks of each system
- Students will be introduced to Indian and Maqam solmization
Resources[edit]
Readings[edit]
- Tobey, A Feeling for Harmony: Chapter 1K - Singing with Solfege
- Kaulkin, "The Case for Moveable Do in Classroom Musicianship."
- Handout: Solfege Systems
- Music Theory Tutor: Solfege Hand Signs
- Clark County Children's Choir: Chromatic Solfege Handsigns
- Vandergraff, Dynamic Music Room: "What is the purpose of Solfege Hand Signs?"
- Sadhana, Raag Hindustani: "Demystifying Indian Classical Music: The Notes in an Octave."
Instructor References[edit]
- McNaught, "The History and Uses of Sol-Fa Syllables." (Proceedings of the Musical Association 19, 1893: 35-51).
Class Activities[edit]
- Explanation of fixed and moveable do systems using major scales and melodies
- Explanation of fixed, moveable do-based and la-based minor systems with a minor scale/melody
- Explanation of systems using modal melodies
- Singing of short melodic excerpts with different solmizations
- Singing of melodies from solfege (no notation)
- Demonstration/contrast of tonal systems using Indian and Maqam solmizations
Assignments[edit]
- Labeling of melodic segments with solfège