Sprechgesang

Sprechgesang is German for ‘speech-song’ — a vocal technique that combines elements of both speech and song. The performer speaks the rhythms of the music at approximate pitches, sliding from one pitch to the next rather than maintaining sustained sung tone. The result is a hybrid that is neither fully spoken nor fully sung.

The technique is most associated with Arnold Schoenberg, who specified it precisely for Pierrot Lunaire (1912). Schoenberg’s notation indicates approximate pitch (the singer speaks rather than sings the notes) but specific rhythm. The effect is unsettling and dramatic, perfectly suited to the work’s expressionist atmosphere.

A related but distinct term is Sprechstimme (‘speaking voice’), used in similar contexts. Both terms describe the speech-song technique, though usage varies between composers and analysts.

German, ‘speech-song’ — Sprech (‘speech’) + Gesang (‘song’).

Follow the notation precisely. Touch the indicated pitches but don’t sustain them; speak the rhythms with rhythmic precision. Practice with a tuner if necessary to find the approximate pitches.