The Impact of Vowels on Pitch Finding and Intonation in the Movable-Do Solmization System

The modern movable-Do solmization system based on syllables devised by Guido d'Arezzo was modified and pieced together over centuries by various scholars and pedagogues, each with their own rationale. To date, considerations of the movable-Do system have not sufficiently examined the effects of the vowels contained within its solfège syllables. While vowels have been thoroughly analyzed among vocal pedagogues, that information has not been adequately transferred to the realm of aural theory. Individual vowels contain perceptual qualities and intonational tendencies, due to their physiological articulation and acoustic properties. This document relates vowel characteristics with the solfège syllables used in the movable-Do solmization system, and explores potential implications contained therein. iii Author's Acknowledgements This thesis would not have been possible without Mrs. Lois Nassen, who provided my musical foundation; Dr. Donald Simonson, who taught me to understand my voice; Dr. James Rodde, who inspired my love of choral music; and Dr. Jeffrey Prater, who fostered my passion and deep appreciation for aural skills by being a teacher, mentor, and friend.