---

---

The traditional vocal ensembles of Bulgaria and other Slavic regions differ from a traditional Western Classical choir in the use of of tight harmonies, piercing vowels, and extensive ornamentation to produce a haunting, ethereal sound. Internationally, this sound has been popularized on albums such as the acclaimed Le Mystere des Voix Bulgares, as well as on soundtracks such as Xena: Warrior Princess, Ghost in the Shell, Alone in the Dark, and others.

With such nuance and unusual performance methods, sampling this vocal ensemble in a traditional way would have been a missed opportunity. Instead, we did months of research on this style of music, carefully taking note of the most frequently-used syllables, ornaments, and vocal effects. Similarly, because there is such a wide range of choral sizes in this tradition, we also made sure to record in sections as well as the full choir; this allows users full control of the performing forces. We also included whole-tone and semitone clusters, which adventurous users can use to replicate the natural change in timbre when performing the tight dissonances endemic to Slavic music. And lastly, to allow for impressive dynamics as well as stylistic versatility, we made sure to record a full range from the quietest sotto voce pianissimo to the loud brassy fortissimo that Slavic choirs are known for.

---

---

The interface of Vocalisa allows for full control over the performance and sound of each section. Articulations and syllables can be triggered via keyswitch, or sequenced using the “Grid Mode.”

Each syllable and ornament can be tweaked individually using knobs for volume, offset, and brightness. For example, using offset on the “mah” syllable can create a simple “ah” vowel, or “shteh” can be shortened to “teh.” The brightness knob is also a highly useful tool for shaping the timbre and tonality of the performance.

Other global effects are available as well! We’ve included handy tools such as a compressor, stereo width control (for widening or collapsing to mono), release noise mixer, EQ, and convolution reverb.