Definition

A method of teaching music that uses specific syllables to represent the notes of a scale, helping singers learn melodies and improve their sight-reading skills.

Example

In music class, we practiced solfege to improve our singing and understanding of melodies.

Conversation

Have you ever tried learning solfege for singing?

No, I haven't, but I've heard it's really helpful.

It is! It makes it easier to understand melodies when you use solfege syllables.

That sounds interesting; I might give it a shot!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Solfege comes from the Italian 'solfeggio', which is derived from 'sol' (the fifth note of the musical scale) and 'fa' (the fourth note). The term refers to a method of teaching music through the use of these note names. It emphasizes the relationship between notes in a scale, helping musicians learn to read and sing music.

Memory Tip

Think of the notes 'sol' and 'fa' as key parts of the musical scale, which helps you remember that solfege is a method for teaching music using these note names.

Visually Confused Words