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Objective measurement of vocal fatigue in classical singers: A vocal dosimetry pilot study
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Objective measurement of vocal fatigue in classical singers: A vocal dosimetry pilot study

Thomas Carroll, John Nix, Eric Hunter, Kate Emerich, Ingo Titze and Mona Abaza
Otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, Vol.135(4), pp.595-602
10/2006
DOI: 10.1016/j.otohns.2006.06.1268
PMCID: 4782153
PMID: 17011424
url
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.otohns.2006.06.1268View
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

To collect objective vibration dose data on singers and relate them to subjective measurements of vocal fatigue. Seven subjects completed a 2-week study period. The National Center for Voice and Speech (NCVS) dosimeter recorded vocal load, soft phonation tasks, and subjective soft voice ratings. Three vocal doses (time, distance, and cycle) were measured in classical singers’ larynges during an intensive practice period. Spikes in vocal load are reflected as harsher subjective ratings on the same day as well as 24-72 hours later. When at least 48 hours of vocal rest occurred before a vocal load, improved subjective evaluations were seen after the load. The NCVS dosimeter appears to be an effective tool for data collection on prolonged use of the voice. This is the first multi-day study comparing objective and subjective data on vocal fatigue in a group of professional singers.

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