Here are some key differences:
Vowels:
* "a" is pronounced like the "a" in "father"
* "e" can be pronounced like the "e" in "bed" or the "e" in "bet" depending on the context
* "i" is pronounced like the "ee" in "see"
* "o" is pronounced like the "o" in "go"
* "u" is pronounced like the "oo" in "moon"
Consonants:
* "c" before "e" or "i" is pronounced like the "ch" in "chair"
* "g" before "e" or "i" is pronounced like the "j" in "gem"
* "r" is pronounced with a strong rolling sound
* "s" at the end of a word is often pronounced like a "z"
* "gn" is pronounced like the "ny" in "canyon"
* "gl" is pronounced like the "gli" in "glimpse"
Examples:
* "Giovanni" is pronounced "joh-VAN-nee"
* "Maria" is pronounced "mah-REE-ah"
* "Marco" is pronounced "MAR-ko"
* "Sofia" is pronounced "so-FEE-ah"
Other factors to consider:
* Stress: In Italian, the stress is usually on the penultimate syllable (the second to last syllable).
* Double consonants: Double consonants are pronounced with a longer, stronger sound.
* Regional variations: There are regional variations in pronunciation, especially in the south of Italy.
It's important to note that there are many exceptions to these rules. The best way to learn how to pronounce Italian names correctly is to listen to native speakers and use a pronunciation guide.