Resonant Voice Index: Developing an Objective Acoustic Model to Quantify Forward-Focused Vocal Resonance

PROJECT SUMMARY This project aims to develop the Resonant Voice Index (RVI), an objective tool for assessing vocal resonance in clinical voice evaluation. Voice quality depends on the interaction between vocal fold vibrations (source) and the vocal tract (filter). When optimally coupled, this interaction creates forward-focused resonance, a resonant voice quality characterized by clear tone, minimal effort, and efficient use of the resonators. Current clinical practice relies only on subjective perceptual ratings that lack reliability and sensitivity. The RVI will be a multiparametric model incorporating acoustic features that quantify forward-focused resonance, offering clinicians an objective measure that matches the complexity of expert perceptual rating. The project has three aims: 1. Determine causal relationships between acoustic features and resonance perception: Use speech resynthesis of standard voice evaluation stimuli to systematically manipulate selective acoustic features and determine their specific impact on perceptual ratings of resonance. 2. Validate acoustic predictors of resonance through natural voice analysis: Examine a diverse corpus of natural voice recordings to identify which acoustic features consistently correlate with expert perceptual ratings of resonance. This will confirm which features identified in Aim 1 generalize to real- world voice samples across speakers. 3. Develop the Resonant Voice Index: Apply machine learning techniques to integrate validated acoustic features into comprehensive, clinically applicable indices that objectively quantify resonance quality. The RVI addresses a critical gap in clinical voice care by providing clinicians with an objective tool for reliable and sensitive evaluation, clinical decision making, and tracking of resonance-related outcomes. Due to the popularity of resonance-focused treatment (e.g., resonant voice therapy, semi-occluded vocal tract exercises, Vocal Function Exercises), the RVI can benefit millions of patients. This research directly supports the NIDCD's strategic goal of improving evaluation and treatment of voice disorders to enhance the quality of life for these patients.