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Speech and Voice Research Laboratory

Tampere University

We study cultural variation in speech and singing applying acoustical, perceptual and voice physiological methods. The laboratory also holds an extensive recording archive recorded since 1968 in our own studio. The archive offers possibility to compare voice user groups and study voice and speech changes within the last decades.

Research focus and goals

The aim is to explore cultural and intercultural differences, which are important for successful communication, and to evaluate the acoustic efficiency and physiological economy of different voice use, which also relates to background factors and prevention of voice problems, voice training methods and their effects and bases.

We aim to find the most effective methods to improve voice use, vocal expression and endurance. Therewith we develop vocal communication skills and occupational well-being of voice professionals and help to prevent voice disorders. We explore communicational role and intercultural differences in voice and speech characteristics to improve speech communication and prevent misinterpretations between individuals and groups. We explore effects of defective language skills and hearing ability on perception of speech characteristics.

Results help to develop teaching methods and computerized aids for those who face challenges in speech communication.

Other members

A-M Laukkanen, Teija Waaramaa, Maarit Aura, Tua Hakanpää, Tero Ikävalko, Tuuli Nilsson, Marcelo Saldias, Jaana Tyrmi, Marja Suurpalo; Tampere University:Tiina Syrjä, Rachel Convey, Nelly Penttilä; Tampere University Hospital: Elina Kankare; Helsinki University Hospital: Ahmed Geneid; Aalto University: Paavo Alku; University of Helsinki: Samuli Siltanen; University of Oulu: Miika Nieminen, Sibelius Academy: Juha Ojala; University of Jyvskylä: Terhi Mäntylä, Kati Järvinen; The Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic: Jaromir Horacek, Vojtech Radolf, Czech Technical University: Tomas Vampola; University of Olomouc: Jan Svec; Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich: Matthias Echternach; Universidad de los Andes, Santiago: Marco Guzman; Karolinska Institutet: Anita McAllister; University of Applied Health Sciences, Germany: Benjamin Barsties von Latoszek; Norwegian University of Technology and Science, Trondheim:Kåre Bjørkøy.

Contact persons

Anne-Maria Laukkanen

Professor / Leader of research

Anne-Maria.Laukkanen [at] uta.fi

+358 50 363 5152