The technologically mediated voice: captured and processed contemporary singing

The mediated singing voice is a significant consideration for contemporary singers in both live performance and recording contexts. Developments in technologies have enabled progressive adjustments in the delivery of the singing voice (e.g. crooning) and, more specifically, in the ways in which the singing voice may be captured and communicated. Using this as a starting point for mediated singing, the article provides an approach to learning, implementing and teaching audio technologies for contemporary singers. We adopt a collaborative approach in which we (self)reflect, analyse and consolidate our respective experiences and through which we identify numerous points of mediation as vocals are processed. Our inquiry focuses on specific areas including mediated voice, aesthetics, recording and performance considerations, and vocal care strategies. Cumulatively, our findings and discussion lead to development of a pedagogical framework for teaching the contemporary singing voice that accounts for its association with audio technology.