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Voice researchers are hard at work to unweave the
complexity of the human voice. A new laboratory at
the University of Iowa is studying the voice at the
cellular level. This lab, named the Laryngeal,
Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory, brings together
researchers in speech and voice science,
otolaryngology, pediatrics and microbiology.
Co-director Dr. Ingo Titze noted that this lab's contribution to science will be unique: "We will look at the cell growth and expression of genes in an unusual environment, where tissue is vibrated at frequencies of 100 Hz or more." He continued by saying, "We're going to see what happens to cells and their environment when they get 'tossed around' at these frequencies." Why such high frequencies? The vocal folds of an average male vibrate 125 times per second. For an average female, they vibrate 220 times per second. The vocal folds of a soprano singing a high C are vibrating over 1000 times per second! |
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Researchers at the University of Hong Kong reported
results from a study on the singing voice. Karaoke is
a wildly popular pastime in Hong Kong. The singers
are usually untrained and often sing for several hours
without a break.
This study investigated whether hydration and voice rest would make a difference to fatigue levels and voice quality. Results showed that drinking water and taking periodic, brief rests gave singers more endurance. However, those who rested and drank water did not demonstrate a better voice quality than those who did not. In other words, they could sing longer, not necessarily better. Link to the article for more information. |
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Though no one knows for certain, scientists are
debating whether or not neanderthals used pitch and
melody to communicate. Some believe that they had
strong, high-pitched voices.
Link to the full article. |
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Workshops and Seminars
MAY 11: Keys to Popcorn Networking
Michelle Eppley, Director of The Sound Center, will deliver this poppin' presentation at a progressive luncheon hosted by the Downers Grove Chamber of Commerce's Women in Business Roundtable.
For more information, or to register, visit www.downersgrove.o rg MAY 12: That Sounds Good! Serve your Customers Better Michelle Eppley will present for WEBO this month. Are the people in your sales and customer service departments comfortable communicating with people who have a foreign accent, speech or language disability, or visual or hearing impairment? People with communication differences are often misunderstood, or worse, shunned. This workshop will help you better serve these growing markets.
WEBO offers high-quality, affordable seminars to help small privately-owned companies continue to be successful. To learn more, please visit WEBO's website at http://www.webo.biz. MAY 18: Presenting--YOU!
This workshop will provide safe, supportive place for you to practice your presentation skills and receive expert feedback. It is valuable whether you are a seasoned speaker or public speaking is your greatest phobia.
MAY 24: The Sound Center hosts the CASLA Voice Consortium
Coming in June...
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