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Voice in the Times of the COVID- 19 Pandemic
The pandemic of COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) affected the modern world in a way never seen before. After an initial phase of disbelief, we all have been affected, some personally with irreparable losses, others collectively, with difficulties maintaining professional activities and ensuring a dignified survival. There are almost 4.5 million dead, more than 200 million infected as of August 2021 (1); and the pandemic is still not over. Global markets have been shaken, and the impact on commerce, industry, employment, and income has been profound. The global economy will suffer years before it recovers.
The human voice also was affected profoundly. Artistic voice professionals had their events cancelled, and thousands of support professionals in the productions were left unemployed. Visits to teachers of singing and voice health providers were reduced to voice emergencies. Clinical voice evaluation through laryngoscopy, as well as the acoustic and aerodynamic measurements, are tasks that potentially disseminate viruses by aerosols or droplets and were restricted to severe cases or modified to reduce the risk of infection.
How Face Masks Affect Acoustic and Auditory Perceptual Characteristics of the Singing Voice
Wearing a face mask has been accepted as one of the most effective ways for slowing the spread of COVID-19. Yet information regarding the degree to which masks affect acoustics and perception associated with voice performers is scarce. This study examines these effects with common face masks, namely a neck gaiter, disposable surgical mask, and N95 mask, as well as a novel material that could be used as a mask (acoustic foam). A recorded excerpt from the “Star-Spangled Banner” was played through a miniature speaker placed inside the mouth of a masked manikin.
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