Singer and Listener Perception of Vocal Warm-Up

Objectives This study investigated changes perceived by singers and listeners after the singers had vocally warmed up. Study Design The study used a repeated measures within-subject design to assess changes in vibrato quality from pre (nonwarmed-up voice) to post (warmed-up voice) test. Intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated to assess singersʹ self-ratings pre- and posttest and intra- and interlistener rater reliability. Methods Twelve classically trained female singers recorded and self-rated their performance of an eight bar solo before and after 25 minutes of vocal warm-up exercises. Six experienced listeners assessed the vocal samples for pre- to posttest differences in tone quality and for each singerʹs warm-up condition. Perceptual judgements were also compared with pre- to posttest changes in vibrato. Results All singers perceived significant changes in tone quality, psychophysiological factors, proprioceptive feedback and technical command. Significant pre- to posttest differences in tone quality and correct appraisal of the singerʹs warm-up condition from most of the listeners were only observed for singers who moderated extremely fast or extremely slow vibrato after warming up. Conclusions The findings reveal the divide between listenersʹ and singersʹ perceptions of the warmed-up voice and highlight the importance of enhanced vibrato quality to listener perception of an improvement in vocal quality.