Effects of Vocal Demands on Voice Performance of Student Singers

Abstract

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