Effects on Vocal Range and Voice Quality of Singing Voice Training : The Classically Trained Female Voice

• ObjectivesA longitudinal study was performed on the acoustical effects of singing voice training under a given study programme, using the Voice Range Profile (VRP). Study DesignPre- and post-training recordings were made of students that participated in a 3-year bachelor singing study programme. A questionnaire that included questions on optimal range, register use, classification, vocal health and hygiene, mixing technique, and training goals, was used to rate and categorize self-assessed voice changes. Based on the responses, a sub-group of 10 classically trained female voices was selected, that was homogeneous enough for effects of training to be identified. MethodsThe VRP perimeter contour was analyzed for effects of voice training. Also, a mapping within the VRP of voice quality, as expressed by the crest factor, was used to indicate the register boundaries and to monitor the acoustical consequences of the newly learned vocal technique of ‘mixed voice.’ VRP’s were averaged across subjects. Findings were compared to the self-assessed vocal changes. ResultsPre-post comparison of the average VRPs showed, in the midrange, (1) a decrease in the VRP area that was associated with the loud chest voice, (2) a reduction of the crest factor values, and (3) a reduction of maximum SPL values. The students’ self-evaluations of the voice changes appeared in some cases to contradict the VRP findings. ConclusionsVRP’s of individual voices were seen to change over the course of a singing education. These changes were manifest also in the group average. High resolution computerized recording, complemented with an acoustic register marker, allows a meaningful assessment of some effects of training, on an individual basis as well as for groups comprised of singers of a specific genre. It is argued that this kind of investigation is possible only within a focussed training programme, given by a faculty that has agreed on the goals.

Ämnesord

NATURVETENSKAP  -- Data- och informationsvetenskap -- Datavetenskap (hsv//swe)

NATURAL SCIENCES  -- Computer and Information Sciences -- Computer Sciences (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

Mixed voice

Phonetogram

Voice range profile

Voice training

Tal- och musikkommunikation

Speech and Music Communication

Publikations- och innehållstyp

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