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How Embodied Cognition Affects Vocal Performance: An Integrative Review.

He Jiang, Wenbo Wu

Journal of voice : official journal of the Voice Foundation November 28, 2025 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvoice.2025.11.005 (opens in new tab)

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Characteristics Integrative review Peer reviewed
Topics Neuroplasticity
Keywords Cross-modal perception Embodied cognition Sensorimotor integration Somatic techniques Vocal pedagogy
Key findings The authors argue that vocal performance is shaped by embodied processes involving sensorimotor feedback, cultural context, and ecological interaction, and that somatic and movement-based techniques can enhance vocal control and expression. They contend that technology may introduce cognitive and kinesthetic tensions that disrupt embodied coherence, and they identify gaps in cross-cultural, longitudinal, and theoretical work.

Abstract

Embodied cognition-the view that cognitive processes are grounded in bodily sensation, action, and environmental interaction-offers a transformative lens for understanding vocal performance. This integrative review synthesizes interdisciplinary research to map key mechanisms, empirical applications, and gaps in the literature on embodied vocal practices. Following Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) methodological framework, we analyzed peer-reviewed studies retrieved from databases such as Web of Science and Google Scholar, focusing on how embodied cognition affects vocal performance. Our findings reveal five major insights: (1) vocal performance is shaped by dynamic embodied processes, where sensorimotor feedback, cultural context, and ecological interaction co-construct expressive outcomes; (2) movement-based and somatic techniques enhance vocal control and artistic expression; (3) neuroimaging research highlights the importance of embodied meta-awareness in expert performance; (4) cross-modal and culturally situated studies show how bodily schemas mediate musical meaning-making; and (5) technological interventions, while expanding expressive possibilities, may disrupt embodied coherence through cognitive and kinesthetic tensions. Despite growing interest, critical gaps remain, particularly in cross-cultural comparison, long-term intervention studies, and integration of theoretical models. We propose future research directions grounded in dynamical systems theory, ecological psychology, and mixed-methods approaches to advance embodied frameworks in vocal pedagogy, performance, and therapy.

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