Voice Map Method 

Enhancing Composer Singer Communication

Abstract (version 8.11.2021)

Communication issues often occur between singers and composers in the context of creating new vocal music. The Voice Map Method (VMM) facilitates more fluent communication and thus supports the artistic process. The VMM consists of two parts: a computer-aided Voice Map Analysis (VMA) and a questionnaire entitled List of Good Questions. This systematic process collects information about a specific singer’s voice and to inexperienced composers some of the most important aspects of the singing voice in general. During the VMA, the composer listens to the singer’s voice to get to know it acoustically. Afterwards, both parties read through the VMA together and proceed to the discussion.

The VMA is based on the Voice Range Profile, an analytical tool used in the voice studies to efficiently collect numerical data. The result of the analysis, Voice Map, shows the possibilities of the singer’s voice visually, indicating each area (analogous to register) and the dynamic ranges (sound pressure level ranges) of each tone. Lastly, the singer’s formant is analysed automatically and the audio is stored for later reference.

Field tests involving different voice types validates the technical functionality of the VMA and optimises the analysis process. Nevertheless, since the VMM is designed to improve communication between artists, the ultimate testing and validation happens in the artistic context in the form of composing three operas. 

The methodology applied here is called ‘iterative development’, which cycles through questions arising from artistic work, literature and other versions of the VMM, in which the Method is based on the experience. The development project is grounded in communication theory, collaborative creativity (as per Keith Sawyer), and the analysis of the composer’s work. Furthermore, voice studies provide a theoretical background for the vocal registers, singer’s formant, vibrato, voice range profile, and the German Fach system.

While the Fach system itself is a fundamental component of the opera industry, it is often misapplied outside of that context. Composing too vaguely for a voice type is characteristic of inexperienced composers. Structural gaps in their training cause them to resort to the Fach system in an uninformed way.

Keywords: Communication, Composer, Contemporary music, Fach, Opera, Soprano, Vocal music, Voice range profile