Whether singing in a foreign language or in your native language, understanding the meaning of the words helps you sing the song with more authenticity. As we all know,  your informed characterization is a part of the aesthetic value for you and your audience. Whenever you are preparing a song, take the time to translate the foreign language and prepare a program note that describes the context for song with information about the composer.  If the song already has a translation, translate the piece anyway. Never assume it is correct or accurate!

Before using someone else’s program notes, translate the song line-by-line using an online translator. Though you can use your note-taking application, try writing out the words by hand on a sheet of paper. That tactile process will likely help you memorize your song better, too! Line-by-line is important, so you can see the translation in shorter segments. Too many lines selected at once may make it harder for you to know which translated word goes with the foreign language word. Here is an example:

De colores se visten los campos en la primavera 

Of colors    dress       the fields      in the spring

Obviously, a direct translation may not be easy to understand. Once you have completed yours, look for a professional translation or one by a native speaker. Try rephrasing the translation in your own language, too. Once again, this activity often helps you memorize the words better.

Regularly use your translation page singing the song with the lyrics only to test your memory.

Also, neatly write your translation in the score for better retention!

Who hasn’t had a memory slip? The question is: how can we prevent them? Though I could list many steps for excellent memorization, here are three good tips focussing on memorizing lyrics:

1. Walk it out: Grab your water bottle, put on your earbuds, and take a walk to the beat of your music—moving in slower motion for ritardando sections and faster for accelerando sections, of course. Listen while walking, lip-sync while walking, and sing while walking. If it’s not a lovely day, then you will have to improvise!
2. Write it out, talk it out, SING IT OUT: Write and type out your lyrics in neat, poem form. Try taping the page to a wall where you have to stand and finish various tasks such as brushing your teeth, washing dishes, etc. Think through the words as a poem and in rhythm. Say the words out loud as a poem and in rhythm. Of course, sing your song with and without your accompaniment track. If you are singing in a foreign language, be sure you know when words begin and end by paying close attention to dashes between syllables. Otherwise, you may not be typing or writing the words correctly.
3. Act it out: Practice saying your words as a poem and in rhythm with characterization. Be sure to say it with meaning. Use your translation to help you practice logical facial expressions and tasteful gestures that work with your song to improve characterization. Of course, practice the same artistry while singing with excellent technique and musicianship.

P. S. Don’t forget to memorize entrances, rests, and interludes. Even if you have the lyrics memorized, you don’t want to start too soon or too late for a new phrase!

YOU CAN DO IT! ~ Practice Singing