Effects of vocal demands on voice performance of student singers

Abstract

Purpose: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of cumulative vocal demands on the voices of music students majoring in voice throughout an academic semester.

Method: Acoustic and aerodynamic voice parameters captured across an academic semester were analyzed. This study was designed as a time-course investigation, in which all participants were tested individually at three separate times distributed equally over an academic semester. General effects were verified with the application of one-way within-participants analysis of variances with repeated measures. The equipment used for monitoring vocal behavior consisted of the Computerized Speech Lab, the Phonatory Aerodynamic System, and the Ambulatory Phonation Monitor, computer-based systems for the assessment of voice. Self-reported data regarding voice usage were also collected.

Results: In this study, comparisons of voice parameters of student singers repeatedly measured throughout an extended period of time did not lead to statistically significant differences. Self-reported information suggested a reasonable level of knowledge and awareness regarding voice concerns in this population.

Conclusions: The results of this study indicated consistent stability of voice acoustic and aerodynamic parameters in this group throughout an academic semester.

Keywords: Singing voice; Voice acoustics and aerodynamics; Voice monitoring.