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The Opera Lady's Guide to Pronunciation

For German

Your best best here is to make a lot of "chhhh" noises in the back of your throat and remember that Germans, for some strange reason, like to make really long words, so be sure to say them all in one breath.

For example: Phantasiestücke

Now, we all get stuck in our fantasies at some time or other, but English people didn't feel the need to make up a special word for it. We use the old words and put them in a sentence.

In any event, just say it fast and spit a little, and you'll be fine.

For French

It is vitally important with French that you use a soft voice and kind of lilt up at the end of the words. You don't want to overdo it, or you'll sound Italian. Instead, sort of float around a little before you start speaking, and be sure to "chhhh" again, like with German but softer, whenever you see an "R." And don't be fooled! French words can have a lot of consonants and still just have two syllables.

For example: L'arlésienne

Say it lightly, "chhh" on the R, and make it two syllables.

Okay, now catch your breath and try again. You'll get it in time.

For Italian

Start French, then overdo it. You want to get-a a real-a rhythm-a a-going-a. Use your tongue a lot and don't make any noises in the back of your throat. Pretty much every vowel gets its own syllable, and if you can, wave your hands around a lot while you're trying to stretch out the words a bit.

For example: Recondita Armonia

Take it slow, perhaps a full second for each of the eight syllables. Good warm-up exercises include "pizza", "lasagna," and "rigatoni."

For Portuguese

Trust me and just forget it.