The phrase "bursted into song" implies a sudden, spontaneous outburst of singing. Antonyms for this phrase would include ideas such as "quietly began to sing," "tentatively hummed a tune," or "slowly started to sing." These antonyms suggest a more subdued, deliberate approach to singing or a hesitant and unsure demeanor. Other antonyms could include "refused to sing," "didn't even try to sing," or "acknowledged the request but did not sing." These ideas point towards a lack of enthusiasm or a refusal to participate in singing, in contrast to the exuberance and energy that "bursted into song" suggests.