Perceptual and Acoustic Correlates of Vocal Register Transitions in Female Carnatic Singers

Abstract

Carnatic music is a highly structured yet improvisatory vocal tradition characterized by precise pitch control. Pitch organization is conceptualized through sthayis, which function as pitch zones across octaves. Although traditionally explained in musical terms, transitions across sthayis may reflect underlying biomechanical changes similar to the vocal register shifts described in voice science. Western literature has documented measurable acoustic and physiological changes during modal—falsetto and modal—fry transitions; however, limited empirical research has examined whether similar phenomena occur in Carnatic singing. This cross-sectional observational study investigated frequency jumps during perceptually identified register transitions in 15 trained female Carnatic singers (20–30 years). Perceptual analysis by two expert judges identified modal—falsetto transitions during ascent and modal—fry transitions during descent. Acoustic analysis using Praat extracted fundamental frequency values across sthayis, and frequency differences at transition points were calculated. Descriptive statistics and Cohen’s Kappa were used to examine magnitude and agreement. Results revealed measurable frequency jumps ranging from approximately 22–42 Hz (modal—falsetto) and 28–90 Hz (modal—fry). Perceptual judgments showed good agreement with acoustic findings. These findings suggest that sthayi navigation in Carnatic singing involves genuine biomechanical register adjustments while maintaining musical continuity through refined vocal training.