Effects of the Virtual Reality Environment on Acoustic Parameters and Self-Perception in Classical and Contemporary...

Virtual reality (VR) is a novel tool that has shown positive results across various disciplines. In voice pedagogy, it offers the advantage of recreating performance scenes in a controlled manner. This study analyzed the effect of using VR headsets on acoustic parameters-Alpha Ratio, Singing Power Ratio (SPR), and Cepstral Peak Prominence Smoothed (CPPS)-and the self-perception of classical and contemporary commercial music (CCM) singers under three visual stimulation conditions.

A repeated-measures quasi-experimental design was employed with 20 singers (10 classical and 10 CCM; 10 men and 10 women), who performed a fragment of their repertoire at three different stages: baseline (M1, real classroom), virtual stage (M2, theater with an audience), and virtual audition (M3, jury). Acoustic parameters were analyzed using Praat, and statistical analysis was performed in JASP (repeated-measures ANOVA, Holm, Mann-Whitney U, and Friedman tests). Self-perception was assessed using an adapted Likert-type questionnaire.

The results revealed a highly significant increase in SPR within the virtual environments and a significant decrease in Alpha Ratio, while the CPPS did not vary significantly. This pattern is consistent with resonance adjustments accompanied by a stable CPPS. No acoustic differences were found between singing styles. Regarding self-perception, CCM singers reported a higher perceived biomechanical cost; nevertheless, both groups exhibited predominantly positive emotions and high device tolerability.

It is concluded that VR induces immediate acoustic adaptations, regardless of the singing style performed, with no detectable change in CPPS. Its high acceptance and positive emotional profile support its viability as a pedagogical tool in professional vocal training.