Kulning: Acoustic and Perceptual Characteristics of a Calling Style Used Within the Scandinavian Herding Tradition

Abstract

Kulning, a loud, high-pitched vocal calling technique pertaining to the Scandinavian herding system, has attracted several researchers' attention, mainly focusing on cultural, phonatory and musical aspects. Less attention has been paid to the spectral and physiological properties that characterize Kulning tones, and also if there is a physiologically optimum pitch range. We analyzed tones produced by ten participants with varying experience in Kulning. They performed a phrase, pitch range G5 to C6 (784 to 1046 Hz), in three different conditions: starting (1) on pitch A5, (2) on the participant's preferred pitch, and (3) after the deepest possible inhalation, also on the participant's preferred pitch subglottal pressure (Psub) was measured as the oral pressure during /p/-occlusion. The quality of the Kulning was rated by a group of experts. The highest-rated tones all had a sound pressure level (SPL) at 0.3 m exceeding 115 dB and a pitch higher than 1010 Hz, while the SPL of the lowest rated tones was less than 108 dB at a pitch below 900 Hz. A multiple regression analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between the ratings and Psub), SPL, level of the fundamental and the frequency at which a spectrum envelope dip occurred. Highly rated tones were started at maximum lung volumes, and on participants’ preferred pitches. They all shared a high frequency of the spectrum envelope dip and a high level of the fundamental. In decreasing order of ratings, Condition 3 showed the highest values followed by Condition 2 and Condition 1. Each singer seemed to perform best within an individual Psub and pitch range. The relevance of the results to voice pedagogy, artistic, and compositional work is discussed.