Which Nonvocal Musical Instrument Sounds Like the Human Voice? An Empirical Investigation

Abstract

Nonvocal musical instruments like the oboe, cello, and violin, have been described as resembling the human voice. However, much of the evidence is based on historical reports and hearsay. In this study, 174 participants rated instruments according to how much they sounded like the human voice. Analysis revealed that no nonvocal instrument was rated as being voicelike, with moderate mean ratings for the clarinet, oboe, violin, and cello. The violin was rated as statistically more voicelike than the trumpet. Voicelikeness was statistically higher for the instrument which the individual played or an instrument which the individual valued. Monophonic instruments such as the clarinet were also rated as overall more voicelike than those which typically could sound several parts at the same time such as the piano. Referring to an instrument as voicelike may be better thought of as a defacto for the instrument’s (and player’s) expressive capabilities.

Keywords

human voice singing musical instruments resemblance expressiveness

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