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The timbre of sung vowels
1Department of Otolaryngology, Free University Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America
|September 1, 1988
Summary
This study explored vowel timbre perception in singers using similarity comparisons and semantic scales. Timbre differences were predictable from spectral analysis, with "sharpness" consistently interpreted.
Area of Science:
- Acoustic Phonetics
- Psychoacoustics
- Music Perception
Background:
- Vowel timbre perception is crucial for understanding vocal music.
- Previous research has explored acoustic correlates of perceived vocal quality.
- A comprehensive perceptual model of sung vowels is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate timbre differences in sung vowels.
- To compare perceptual data from similarity judgments and semantic scales.
- To relate spectral characteristics to perceived vowel qualities.
Main Methods:
- Two listening experiments were conducted: similarity judgments and semantic bipolar scales.
- Multidimensional scaling (INDSCAL) and preference mapping (MDPREF) analyses were employed.
- Acoustic analysis of vowel spectra (1/3-octave bands) was performed.
Main Results:
- Perceptual configurations derived from similarity and semantic data were comparable.
- Semantic scales clustered into vocal technique, general evaluation, vibrato, clarity, and sharpness.
- Timbre differences were predictable from spectral differences, particularly the spectrum slope related to sharpness.
Conclusions:
- Sung vowel perception is multidimensional, with distinct but related perceptual categories.
- Spectral slope is a key acoustic correlate for the perceived quality of 'sharpness'.
- Findings extend to more naturalistic singing contexts, validating the perceptual model.
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