the hot goddess

Singing and Learning in Midlife ~ Learning Portuguese, Part II

Video alert: Just a little laugh from Instagram, and a challenge to keep me on track.

This is what happens when you stop cleaning house on a Sunday to do an impromptu singalong of the song you’ve been using to learn Portuguese pronunciation. You’re getting into it, thinking you sound pretty good, singing out loud with the doors open because your neighbors aren’t home. You sound terrible, though. And then you realize your neighbors are, in fact, home. After that, you whisper-practice only on weekdays when everyone nearby is at work.

Getting the word endings right is a big pronunciation challenge for me. Especially the “o” sound, which is pronounced “oo” not “oh” when it’s at the end of a word.

Listening to Portuguese songs is one way my language teachers have suggested to practice understanding spoken Portuguese. I prefer to use fado songs because they are slow. Following along with the written lyrics also helps me practice reading Portuguese.

I’m still stuck learning at Level A2 after nine months in Portugal and have gotten frustrated with the grammar. Listening to Portuguese music and news is one way I can practice learning when I get sick of my workbooks. Now, I’m working on a new challenge. Learning — and singing — this song, Melhor de Mim, by contemporary fado star Mariza. I was inspired to challenge myself after hearing the talented Portuguese singers Vox Feminis perform songs in English.

We’ll see how I progress with my singing challenge. It can’t get any worse.

This is what singing a song in a different language should sound like. Portuguese singing group Vox Feminis performing Blackbird by the Beatles. Their entire performance was done in English. They were part of a weekend festival in the Silver Coast town of Bombarral.
A capella version of Dream a Little Dream of Me
Mata Municipal Bombarral

Thank you for reading. Stay tuned to see if I am up to this Portuguese song challenge.

All images are my own.

The Hot Goddess

Instagram: retired_rewired_inspired

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20 comments

  2. There is nothing wrong with your singing, Natalie! What a great way to practice your language skills. Love the singing group too. And those statues in the garden! Do you know the meaning/story behind them? I am intrigued.

    Deb

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    • Ha! Thank you for being kind ❤️, but I’m going to keep focusing on my pronunciation, which I may have a better chance of improving. I just loved that singing group! As for the statues, each one represents one of the four seasons. I didn’t get clear photos to show that, unfortunately. It is a much prettier garden than my pics convey.

      I think the one with the “superhero cape” (my words) in purple would be a
      fitting tribute to you in your garden/backyard space. I’m still in awe of all you created!

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