THE EFFECTS OF ATMOSPHERIC CONDITIONS ON THE SINGER

Abstract

The subject of atmospheric conditions and their potential effects on the human voice has been discussed for hundreds of years. However, perceptions are not consistent throughout history. Relatively recent books on the science of vocal pedagogy for singers include ways to protect the instrument from harsh atmospheric conditions, but very little research is used to back up common and vague statements such as “avoid exposure to cold, wet, or foggy weather” or “the singer’s throat much prefers a spring rainy day to a cold crisp day in December.” Furthermore, well-known singers have equally well-known aversions to singing in certain conditions. Yet, scientific explanation is staggeringly thin. Of the little scientific research conducted, very few use realistic atmospheric conditions, and even fewer use singers. Answers to questions about the voice’s connection to atmospheric conditions are currently theoretical and diverse, demonstrating: 1) that many assume atmospheric conditions in one way or another do indeed affect the singer, but there are a variety of opinions regarding how and why, and 2) the necessity of universal clarification of these issues, using scientific information. Currently, no document has ever been solely dedicated to vocal health and atmospheric conditions. This study conducts an in-depth overview of theoretical and scientific evidence to produce such a text. It highlights the necessity—and serves as a catalyst—for further research in this little-studied field.