Perception
Researchers at York are investigating the perception of sound in the context of solo singing, both in terms of the audience and the performer. Whilst perception varies between individuals certain parameters associated with specific sounds can be identified, especially in terms of preference and categorisation.
Researchers at York are investigating the perception of sound in the context of solo singing, both in terms of the audience and the performer. Whilst perception varies between individuals certain parameters associated with specific sounds can be identified, especially in terms of preference and categorisation.
Very small changes during any part of the vocal process can have a major impact on the sound produced by a singer. These can include:
- the manipulation of the vocal tract to alter its resonating properties changing the timbre or quality of the sound
- changes in phonation, including registers to aid pitch transition, contributing to breathiness, loudness and sound quality
- the breathing system, including its impact on larynx position and contribution to voice quality and vocal control
Vibrato
A feature of solo singing that is often stereotyped within certain genres of performance (particularly opera), vibrato is apparent in sung tones in most singing styles, including jazz, musical theatre and pop. Through acoustic analysis as well as analysis of electrolaryngograph data, researchers at York have found distinct patterns of vibrato behaviour within tones that distinguish classical singers who specialise in early music (composed pre-1800) from those performing grand opera.
A feature of solo singing that is often stereotyped within certain genres of performance (particularly opera), vibrato is apparent in sung tones in most singing styles, including jazz, musical theatre and pop. Through acoustic analysis as well as analysis of electrolaryngograph data, researchers at York have found distinct patterns of vibrato behaviour within tones that distinguish classical singers who specialise in early music (composed pre-1800) from those performing grand opera.