record_voice_over Pronunciation
Singing Benin’s anthem in Fon
A practical pronunciation guide for learning to sing L’Aube Nouvelle in fɔ̀ngbè. Simplified phonetics and tips.
Pronouncing the special sounds of Fon
Before singing the anthem, master these sounds that don’t exist in English:
The refrain, phonetically
Here is the refrain (Hanyiyi) with a simplified phonetic transcription (written for French speakers):
Resources for practicing
The best way to learn is to listen and repeat. Here are the best resources:
Pro tip
Don’t try to learn everything at once. Start with the refrain (Hanyiyi), which repeats after each verse. Once you have mastered it, add the verses one by one. In 2-3 sessions, you’ll be able to sing the whole anthem!
Fon culture is understood in the Fon language.
Proverbs, Vodun, the history of Danxomɛ: all of it is said first in Fon. 79 video lessons with a native speaker, from the first greeting to conversation — so you can listen to this culture without having it translated for you.
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- The Fon video course: see the program — 79 lessons with a native speaker from Cotonou, taught in French
- What is your Fon level? — the free 15-question test