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DT211V The Functioning of the Singing Voice 7.5 credits

Sångröstens funktion

This course explains how the voice is functioning when used as a music instrument within the classical Western tradition as well as in various “popular music” genres. The emphasis is place on how the voice works and how its timbral properties are controlled by physiological factors such as breathing behaviour, larynx positioning and vocal tract shaping. Also included are room acoustics, basic sound recording technology and auditory perception of the voice.

Educational level Second cycle Academic level (A-D) C
Subject area Electrical Engineering
 Grade scale P, F

Course offerings

Autumn 13 fovsfunk for single courses students - To application

Periods Autumn 13 P0 (7.5 credits) Application code 40006
Start date 22/07/2013 End date 2013 week: 34
Language of instruction English Campus -
Number of lectures Number of exercises
Tutoring time Daytime Form of study Normal
Number of places * 10 - 25
*) The Course date may be cancelled if number of admitted are less than minimum of places. If there are more applicants than number of places selection will be made.
Course responsible
Teacher Johan Sundberg <jsu@kth.se>
Part of programme
Apply for this course at antagning.se through this application link.
Please note that you need to log in at antagning.se to finalize your application.

Learning outcomes

After completion of the course participants should be able to

  • describe how vocal sounds are produced,

  • describe how breathing behaviour affects vocal fold vibration and vocal sounds,

  • describe how the vocal tract resonances affect vowel quality and personal voice timbre,

  • describe basic factors to be considered when recording voices,

  • describe main factors contributing to the acoustic properties of a room,

  • read and understand scientific articles on voice research.

Course main content

Lectures

  • about anatomy, physiology and acoustics of the voice organ;

  • about the voice source and how its properties are affected by variation of vocal loudness and laryngeal adjustments and how it changes with vocal register;

  • about relations between vocal tract resonances and vowel and voice quality;

  • about differences between voice types;

  • about acoustical and physiological voice analysis;

  • about risk­ factors and strategies for singers performing in different genres;

  • about room acoustics and sound recording technology.

Disposition

20 h lectures and 20 h workshop sessions.

Eligibility

120 ECTS of which at least 30 ECTS in singing/voice or equivalent. Proficiency in English corresponding to English A..

Prerequisites

Competence corresponding to singing or voice teacher, speech and language therapist or practical acquaintance with singing.

Literature

J Sundberg: RÖSTLÄRA, 2001; Kurskompendium

Examination

  • LAB1 - Laboratory Work, 1.5 credits, grade scale: P, F
  • TEN1 - Examination, 6.0 credits, grade scale: P, F

Written exam to be delivered 2 weeks after completion of course complemented by descriptions of and homework from workshops.

Requirements for final grade

Pass on written exam. Delivered descriptions of and homework from workshops.

Offered by

CSC/Speech, Music and Hearing

Contact

Johan Sundberg, telefon: 08-790 7873, e-post: jsu@csc.kth.se

Examiner

Sten Ternström <stern@kth.se>

Version

Course plan valid from: Spring 13.
Examination information valid from: Autumn 07.