The human voice is a musical instrument all on its own. So, it’s no wonder that different cultures use it in such a wide variety of ways.
Click start to play today’s Crossword, where you can name a kind of Alpine singing technique.
Here are three unusual singing techniques that are integral to the cultures from where they originate:
1. Tuvan throat singing
Tuva is a part of Russia, between Siberia and Mongolia, that’s home to tall mountains, rapid streams and diverse wildlife. The Tuvan people have lived as herders and hunters for several centuries, and their form of singing reflects their close relationship with Nature. The Tuvans aim to mimic the sounds of their environment with throat singing – from childhood, they are taught to imitate birdsong, whistling wind and roading streams. They use circular breathing to hold the notes for a long time – a practice called “khoomei”. In 2009, Tuvan throat singing was included in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco).
2. Yodeling
What is today performed for entertainment, and is well known as a folk tradition, was once used in rural Alpine communities as a vital form of communication. Yodeling evolved in central areas of Switzerland as a way to communicate from village to village and mountain to mountain – it bridged the gap created by Alpine valleys and rugged terrain. People also used yodels to call their cows home. But its pragmatic use turned into an art form as it morphed into songs that allowed others to join in and harmonise. Today, it’s normally accompanied by an accordion called the schwyzerörgeli, and there are even yodeling competitions!
3. Konnakol
The art of performing percussion syllables vocally, konnakol is an important part of south Indian Carnatic music. The word konnakol comes from the Tamil words koni, “to recite”, and kol “to rule”. The vocal patterns of konnakol resemble beatboxing in the West, but it’s rhythmic complexities and patterns are not for the easily distracted. Practitioners of this sophisticated art form are also seen usually clapping the talam (cyclic meter) with their hands, as they recite or sing.
Did you know about these singing techniques? Play today’s Crossword and tell us at games@gulfnews.com.
