Fundamental Frequency in Speaking, Singing, Reading and Phonation

Abstract

The  importance of measurement  of  fundamental   frequency   of  voice (habitual frequency) in the diagnosis  and treatment  of voice disorders is well known. Different types of  speech  samples have been considered by different investigators for this  purpose. In the present study an attempt has been made to note the differences in fundamental frequency in speaking, singing, reading  and phonation  in 30 males and 30 females,  using a pitch analyzer. The results indicate that there  are significant differences between each type of speech sample  considered,  in terms of fundamental frequency. The fundamental frequency used  in phonation by these  subjects has been found to be  in the vicinity of optimum pitch.