The Female Voice in the Twentieth Century: Material, Symbolic and Aesthetic Dimensions

This volume explores the female voice in the 20th century through theoretical approaches and musicological investigations, covering various styles and genres. It emphasizes the role of female singers in experimentation, vocal techniques, and the subjectivization of the voice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 202 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating volume delves into the intricate world of the female voice in the 20th century, exploring its multifaceted aspects through a fusion of theoretical perspectives and musicological investigations. The contributors to this esteemed collection present fresh and thought-provoking viewpoints on the material, symbolic, and cultural dimensions of the female voice, offering a comprehensive and innovative appraisal of its role in performance practices. Spanning a wide range of styles and genres, including Western art music, experimental composition, popular music, urban folk, and jazz, the volume showcases the diverse expressions and technical innovations of female singers throughout the century.

The central theme of this volume revolves around the profound impact of female singers' experimentations and extended vocal techniques on the evolution of the female voice. It sheds light on the process of 'subjectivization of the voice,' where singers have embraced their unique vocal identities and created a profound connection with their audiences. Through their artistic endeavors, female singers have challenged traditional gender norms, pushed boundaries, and expanded the expressive possibilities of the human voice.

The contributors to this volume employ a diverse range of theoretical frameworks, including feminist theory, psychoanalysis, and cultural studies, to analyze the female voice in the 20th century. They explore the historical, social, and cultural contexts that have shaped the perception and representation of the female voice, highlighting the ways in which it has been both celebrated and marginalized. The volume also examines the role of the female voice in shaping societal attitudes and beliefs, particularly in relation to gender, sexuality, and power dynamics.

In addition to its theoretical insights, this volume offers a rich collection of musical examples and analyses. It showcases the works of renowned female singers, both classical and contemporary, and provides a detailed examination of their vocal techniques, stylistic choices, and emotional impact. The authors employ a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on various disciplines such as musicology, performance studies, and cultural anthropology, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the female voice in the 20th century.

Overall, this volume is a groundbreaking contribution to the field of musicology and gender studies. It offers a deep and nuanced exploration of the female voice in the 20th century, highlighting its artistic, symbolic, and cultural significance. Through its interdisciplinary approach, it provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between the female voice and performance practices, gender identity, and societal norms. This volume will be of interest to scholars, researchers, and music enthusiasts alike, as it sheds light on the enduring legacy of the female voice in the 20th century and its potential for future exploration and innovation.

Weight: 344g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367715496