Research and Subject Area

I'm glad that I have a subject area for the year ahead, but the challenge facing me over the next short period of time will be narrowing my area of study into an interesting, worthwhile and testable research aim. Given the diverse nature of the human vocal element, I could analyse and study it in a range of approaches such as;

• The ever present dominance and creative applications of voice in music and culture as an instrument;
• Musically the most recognized vocal instrument is that of a singer, usually combining notes/words with melodic phrases, drones, etc.
• Other applications such as beatboxing, whistling and established instrument mimicry;

Naturally 7 - An A Capella music group that uses extensive beatboxing, harmonies and mimicry in their studio and live performances/productions. (YouTube)

• The use of voice as a sound effects generator in creative mediums;
• “The best unique sound effects are those made from scratch. Humans have far more range than almost every other creature in the animal kingdom, so try to produce the sound yourself.” - Ric Viers 2008.
• Compare vocal applications in creative mediums before and after the rise of digital technology (Animation/Video Games).

            
A short video detailing the many voices of Mel Blanc, most famous for his work with Warner Brothers animation. (YouTube) 

The Wabi Sabi Sound guys displaying the combination of voice acting with digital technology to create more abstract monster noises. (YouTube)