In Search of the “Phonograph Effect”: Sonic Gestures in Violin Performance and Their Modification by Early Recording and Playback Devices (1901–1933)

Abstract

To what extent did early recording technology affect the creation and representation of musical performances? According to Mark Katz (from 1999 onwards), historical studio environments led to crucial shifts in 20th century violin performances due to the restrictions imposed by early recording and reproduction devices (“phonograph effects”). In particular, this may have affected sonic gestures that include expressive means such as vibrato, portamento, articulation, and timbre variation. In order to trace potential modifications, we reenacted a 1911 “Liebesleid” performance by one of the most influential violinists of the 20th century, Fritz Kreisler. We then digitally ascertained the full acoustic transfer paths (impulse responses, IRs) from the 1911 studio to 20 historical gramophone setups and applied them to the reenactment. In this way, for the first time, our study generated comparative IR findings across multiple gramophones, soundboxes, and horns built by different manufacturers between 1901 and 1933. Sonic gestures were found to induce significant level modifications of up to 20 dB due to the devices’ resonances, leading to dynamical variations that have never been part of the performance. Accordingly, Kreisler's famous “golden tone” is due, in part, to the recording technologies of his time. Therefore, early recordings should not be understood as “neutral witnesses” but rather as artifacts with substantial influence on the creation and reproduction of musical performance(s).