Real-time Visual Feedback in the Development of Vocal Pitch Accuracy in Singing

Abstract

It has been conjectured that the development of vocal pitch accuracs Mn siiging is partly determined by the quality of feedback available to an error labelling schema (Welch. 1985 [a] and lb]). As a practical applicationl of this theoretical construct to the classroom, a micro-computer-based nvsteni (Howard and Welch, 1987) has been developed to provide real-time visual feedback of vocal pitch production to the user. This system has recentiv undergone initial trials with a class of seven-year-old children in a Bristol school. The sample (n =32) was divided into three matched groups: (a) experimental interactive, (b) experimental non-interactive, and (c) control, based on an initial system-driven assessment of their socal pitch accuracy Groups (a) and (b) used the system and the control group (c) uindertook singing activities of a more traditional nature. After one schoiol term. socal pitch accuracy was re-assessed. The two experimental groups recorded a signiticant improvement in their vocal pitch matching ability cmpared to the control group. The results are seen as supportive of the previouLslv stated theoretical position and confirm that action can encouralrac the underlsin.it developmental process (Welch, 1986).