Solfége (sol-FEZH) is a system of syllables that indicate notes in a musical scale. The C Major Scale, for example – C,D,E, F, G, A, B, C – can be represented in Solfége by the syllables do, re, mi, fa, so, la, ti, do.

A Bb Major scale – although it begins on a different note than a C Major Scale – is represented in Solfége by those same syllables. This holds true for any Major Scale started on any pitch: Solfége is not about specific notes, but about relationships between notes.

Advantages and Uses of Solfége.

• Solfége can function as a kind of musical shorthand, especially in vocal groups. Singers can be directed without having to be fluent in all 12 keys.

• Pitch-wise, melodies can start anywhere using Solfége. This is handy when needing to quickly raise or lower the key of an entire piece in order to accommodate different vocal ranges.

• No pitch reference is needed to work in Solfége – no sheet music nor piano. It’s great in a capella environments.

• Solfége is learned by – and is dependent upon – our ears. Becoming fluent in it can be a gateway to fluency in playing, singing, and listening: one becomes less “tied to the page”.

Who uses Solfége?

Singers, music educators, music students, composers, orchestrators, instrumentalists... anyone who has a need to communicate pitch information regardless of key.

How are the actual dice used?

• As an educational tool. Dice can be rolled and students can sing what comes up, either horizontally as a melody, or vertically as harmony. This is great ear training! In theory classes, students can be asked to define rolled Solfége notes in different keys (Example: what is ti in the key of E?).

• As a compositional tool. The Solfége Dice – like the Musician’s Dice – can be used in creating compositions with random elements.

Which should I get, the Musician’s Dice or the Solfége Dice?

The Musician’s Dice have, perhaps, a somewhat broader appeal. While the Solfége Dice can be enjoyed by musicians of all stripes as well, they are especially appropriate for singers and educators.

Are the Solfége Dice related to the “Solfeggio Tones”?

No. The “Solfeggio Tones” are part of a recent philosophical and tonal healing system, and are not related directly to the dice. The terms “Solfége” (french), “Solfeggio” (Italian), and Sol-Fa (english) all refer simply to the syllables themselves, and are used in many different contexts.

Stuff that Stocking.

The Solfége Dice make a great gift , by themselves or in tandem with the Musician's Dice. Ho ho ho!