On the Benefit of Larynx-Microphone Field Recordings for the Documentation and Analysis of Polyphonic Vocal Music

Larynx-microphone recordings of body vibrations during singing effectively isolate individual vocal contributions in polyphonic music, capturing pitch, intonation, and intensity while minimizing interference from other singers. This innovative approach, tested in a field study at UNESCO World Heritage Site Upper Svaneti (Georgia), demonstrates its practicality under real-world conditions. Researchers analyzed 20 Svan songs performed by two trios, confirming that larynx-microphone recordings provide unique data not achievable through traditional audio methods. The findings validate the technique as a valuable tool for documenting and analyzing complex vocal traditions, offering new insights into the structure and performance of polyphonic music.

Scherbaum, F. (2016). On the Benefit of Larynx-Microphone Field Recordings for the Documentation and Analysis of Polyphonic Vocal Music. Dublin Institute of Technology. https://doi.org/10.21427/D7FQ8H