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Link to the test: https://shef.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7NH4YXU6PAvjVgq and QR-code for the test, you can use either for taking the test!
Welcome to the audio testing!
Are you interested in the khomus and jaw harp? Would you like to test your timbral hearing perception?
We present a new test for recognizing melodies and timbral phrases performed on the khomus!
You may have already heard the khomus, play it, or perform with it. Being part of the cultural landscape of Yakutia, the khomus has unique technical possibilities and rich overtone qualities. There are various ways to play this instrument. Have you ever wondered if you can hear phrases and words through the khomus, or recognize melodies? If you are curious to test your ability to perceive timbres, we invite you to participate in the audio testing with a questionnaire!
Please familiarize yourself with the information sheet by downloading it here before taking the test.
The Sakha/Yakut khomus, also known as the jaw harp, is a traditional musical instrument with a rich history in Sakha culture. Its sound is unique due to its ability to create melodies, as well as generate complex overtones and subtle timbres, often mimicking the sounds of nature. This survey aims to study how listeners perceive these sounds and how they recognize melodies and timbral differences in khomus music.
Purpose of the Study:
This survey aims to explore:
How listeners recognize melodies played on the khomus.
How well listeners can hear timbral variations and overtones in the music.
Whether cultural, musical, or linguistic backgrounds influence the perception and interpretation of the sounds of the khomus.
Whether people can recognize words and phrases when listening to the khomus, and how knowledge of the language affects the perception of articulation in khomus sounds.
Whether listeners can capture melodies on the Yakut khomus, considering the linguistic and cultural specifics of the performance.
This research will help us better understand the concept of timbral perception—the ability to pick up on nuances in sound beyond melody, focusing on texture, tone color, and resonance. It also seeks to identify how different types of music and knowledge of language shape the ability to distinguish these qualities in overtone-rich instruments like the khomus.
What to Expect:
You will listen to a series of audio samples showcasing performances on the Yakut khomus and jaw harps from other cultures.
You will assess the melodies, complete the test, and score points. Responses will be submitted immediately.
You will also need to describe the sounds, such as associations that come to mind upon listening, or draw what you feel and attach your drawing or description.
Note: The testing does not collect personal data. Responses will be stored at the University of Sheffield. Your answers will remain anonymous. Participation is voluntary.
The survey will take approximately 15-20 minutes.
Your contribution matters: By participating, you will help us understand how people from different cultural, linguistic, and musical backgrounds perceive the unique sounds of the khomus. Your responses will contribute to a deeper understanding of timbral perception and how this skill develops in listeners.
Thank you for your time and participation!
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