PhD Defense - Sarabeth MULLINS 

Des voix du passé: The historical acoustics of Notre-Dame de Paris and choral polyphony.
Abstract:
This dissertation explores the acoustic heritage of Notre-Dame de Paris in the 12th-14th centuries, a period when an innovative musical culture of vocal polyphony coexisted with the construction of the cathedral. The initial part of the research involved creating virtual acoustic models of the cathedral as it existed during this period. These models are used to conduct singing experiments with historically-informed choirs, who sing music from the École de Notre-Dame within the recreated acoustics of Notre-Dame. The audio and video recordings of the experiments are analysed to examine the choir's performance behaviour within the simulated acoustics. Related audio recordings from the experiments are perceptually evaluated using listening tests, where both specialists and generalists evaluate the suitability of the different acoustics for the performances. The results of these three approaches provide insights into how the acoustics of the cathedral may have influenced the execution and reception of Notre-Dame organum. This research not only contributes to our understanding of the historical influence of Notre-Dame on the cultural development of medieval France, but also offers a methodological framework for studying other heritage sites.