METHODOLOGY AND APPROACH

DICTION

Production of precise, authentic sounds and intonation in modern French, Italian, and English, as well as in historical French and Latin, and in various accents in English. Dr. Houston can explain not only what sounds are required, but the biomechanics of producing them. She obtains excellent results not only in pronunciation, but also in clarity of diction.

TEXT

Attention to the flow of text as it relates to the music. Analysis and exegesis for comprehension. Historical or dramatic context, idiomatic syntax, and meaning.

INTERPRETATION AND PERFORMANCE

Attention to speaking the lines as an actor would, so that the rhythm makes sense, and the drama emerges. Character, musical and literary style, word emphasis, musical and dramatic arc.

WORKING WITH CHORUSES

Dr. Houston has extensive experience working with large classes in diction and phonetics. She has also conducted choruses and operetta. Her ability to hear mistakes and correct them efficiently in a group context is one reason choral conductors find working with her so useful. In addition, she has worked with professional chamber vocal groups like the Concord Ensemble in the oratorical delivery of texts.  Most recently she assisted Maestro Christoph von Dohn‡nyi and Director of Choruses Robert Porco in preparing the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus for their performance of Berliozâ Damnation de Faust at the 2000 Edinburgh International Festival.