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An integrated method of vocal development: a theoretical and empirical study

The integrated method proposed and worked out consisted of integration of vocal and voice-speech teaching techniques as well as integration of the empirical and mechanical methods of teaching. Balance and co-ordination between external and intra-pharyngeal articulation were considered as a framework for integration of various methods of teaching. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), along with spectral analysis, was used to demonstrate the work of intrapharyngeal muscles while singing and to assess the quality of vocalization. 54 MRI expositions were generated for the set of vowels, pitches and modes, of which over 400 MRI images were synthesized and measured. When switching from amateur to professional way of singing, radical transformations of size, shape and to some extent, changes in the surface properties (density, porosity) of muscular tissue of intra-pharyngeal cavities were observed. New acquired MR images clearly showed that the axial section of the back cavity appears indeed much larger in the professional mode than in the amateur mode. Statistical analysis showed that this difference is statistically significant. It is shown that the work on muscles development and use of mental images/imagination must progress in close collaboration. The strategy for the gradual mastering technique of the opening of the vocal tract was suggested, and developed. A new approach was developed to be applied for students to get stable repeatability when they work with mental images. Obtained MR images were used as a part of visualization method during experimental work with students. MR images helped students to create proper mental images. The theory of tangible images was suggested and then successfully applied in the form of experimental work with students. Experimental work with students of the ethnic group Maori was conducted. This experimental work with Maori students demonstrated that the integrated method of teaching helped to overcome some physiological and psychological specific problems which require special techniques of training. Case studies were carried out to assess individual and students' group perceptions, along with interview techniques and a survey questionnaire. The results of the survey are presented graphically, and statistical processing of the data was performed. The results of the survey are interpreted and discussed.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:ADTP/215491
Date January 2007
CreatorsGullaer, Irene, School of Music & Music Education, UNSW
Source SetsAustraliasian Digital Theses Program
LanguageEnglish
Detected LanguageEnglish
Rightshttp://unsworks.unsw.edu.au/copyright, http://unsworks.unsw.edu.au/copyright

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