Behind the scene are benches for the singers, which are turned toward the public and separated from one another by the breadth of a palm.

Behind these is an orchestra of lutes, clavicembali, and other instruments, in tune with the voices.

From above the scene falls a large curtain which shuts off the singers and instrumentalists; the rule of procedure will be according to the following order: "The invisible singers read the music from their parts.

They will be three at a time, or better, six, two sopranos, two tenors, one alto and one bass, singing or remaining silent according to the occasion, giving with spirit the lively words and with feeling the sentimental ones and pronouncing all with loud and intelligible voices according to the judgment of prudent singers.
"The actors alone on the scene, and reciting, should prepare their parts so as to know them by heart and in every detail of place and time follow the music with all care as to time.

It will not be a bad idea to have a prompter to aid the singers, instrumentalists and reciters." The words, carefully chosen by the writer, prove conclusively that the actors did not sing; they spoke.