Cross-training is gradually becoming common in vocal pedagogy, as widely-used literature includes“Cross Training for the Voice” (Edwin, 2008), “Cross-Training in the Voice Studio: A Balancing Act” (Spivey and Saunders Barton, 2018), and “Building Versatile Voices” (Moniz, 2023). However, the impact of cross-training on voice quality remains under-explored. This study investigates the effects of cross-genre singing on perceived vocal quality, comparing singers in three specific groups: classical trained-only, contemporary trained-only, and cross-trained singers.

Participants for this study are from a major conservatory with at least three years of private vocal training and no current or recent vocal injury or illness impacting normal voice quality. The study methods include a pre- and post-task Acoustic Voice Quality Index (AVQI). The participants will sing ten repetitions of the American National Anthem in classical and contemporary styles in random order. After each repetition of the anthem, participants will complete the Omni Vocal Effort Scale (Omni-VES). Data analysis will estimate changes in perceived effort AVQI, and Omni-VES scores by group. While data collection is ongoing, the results may provide insights into the potential connection between cross-training experience, voice quality, and vocal effort upon cross-genre vocal loading.