Switzerland’s Yodeling Tradition: Evolution and Echoes of Change

74

Yodeling, that unique vocal tradition closely associated with Switzerland’s majestic Alpine landscapes, has been echoing through history for as long as humans have expressed themselves through song. However, this distinctive singing style hasn’t always found itself in the limelight of popularity.

Mark Twain, the renowned 19th-century American author, humorously mentioned in his work “A Tramp Abroad” that after hiring yodelers for the day, he preferred they refrain from yodeling any longer. Another literary figure, Sir Walter Scott, shared a less-than-enthusiastic perspective on the sounds of yodeling, comparing them to “the tones of a jackass.” Even Roman Emperor Julian himself wasn’t a fan. But despite its historical detractors, yodeling has deep roots across the globe, from Scandinavian kulning to Iranian tahrir and Hawaiian leo ki‘eki‘e.

In modern-day Switzerland, the tradition persists with around 20,000 official federal yodeling society members and a triennial festival that draws massive crowds of up to 150,000 fans. This festival goes beyond yodeling and includes alphorn blowing and flag waving, showcasing the diversity of Swiss musical heritage. The significance of yodeling in Swiss culture has grown so strong that the government is aiming to secure UNESCO cultural heritage status for it.

However, even amidst its prominence, yodeling continues to grapple with a less-than-stellar reputation. Some argue that this predominantly male practice remains steeped in traditionalism and should adapt to the changing times.

But is yodeling truly an acquired taste or simply misunderstood? Is it destined to gather dust in music libraries, or could a new generation give it a modern twist?

Yodeling’s Historical Journey and Misconceptions

In the past, yodeling served practical purposes like helping Swiss mountain herders communicate between villages or call their livestock. In the 19th century, it transformed into a form of European music hall entertainment that captured global attention, even becoming popular in the United States.

Today, there are two main forms of Swiss yodeling: “naturjodel” and “jodellied” or “yodel song.” The naturjodel conveys wordless melodies that express the emotions of mountain people in regional dialects. On the other hand, the jodellied style is more modern, influenced by 19th-century vocal aesthetics. It typically features stanzas about rustic-romantic themes followed by a trilling refrain. Straying from these norms is generally frowned upon within the Swiss yodeling scene.

Dutch-American music writer Bart Plantenga is a leading yodeling authority. He emphasizes that yodeling’s influence transcends clichés and stretches across demographics, genres, and geography. Yodeling’s reach extends from the Solomon Islands to Bollywood and from the Alps to Australia and Japan. Notably, musicians as diverse as Gustav Mahler, Hank Williams, Jr., and Bob Dylan have all felt the allure of yodeling. This echoes in today’s Eurovision pop songs and even “free” jazz.

The Winds of Change in Yodeling

While traditional yodeling continues to thrive in festivals and concerts, it’s less visible in everyday life. Renowned Swiss yodeler Nadja Räss points out that spontaneous yodeling in restaurants is met with raised eyebrows today. However, she strives to restore the communal aspect of yodeling, normalizing it in public spaces once again. She teaches the tradition in a global context, seeing yodeling as a universal language.

Yodeling is so integral to Swiss identity that it’s being nominated for UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. Yet, defining a folk art that evolves and changes proves challenging. This debate within the Swiss yodeling community reflects a tug of war between preserving tradition and allowing individual creativity to flourish.

Räss notes the passion and promise among yodelers of all ages and backgrounds. She highlights the feminist choir “Echo vom Eierstock,” which reimagines traditional male-centric yodel lyrics to reflect modern experiences, especially among women.

Michèle Obrist, a 21-year-old yodeler, challenges stereotypes by embracing yodeling as a family tradition. She points out that while traditions can dwindle among younger generations, various projects are uniting young yodelers, breathing fresh life into this cherished heritage.

Experiencing Yodeling in Switzerland

For those intrigued by the enchanting world of yodeling, Switzerland offers diverse experiences:

1. Swiss Federal Yodeling Festival: This grand event occurs every three years, celebrating yodeling’s beauty and diversity. The next festival is scheduled for Basel in June 2026.

2. Natural Yodeling in Appenzell: Appenzell, synonymous with naturjodel, offers demonstrations, workshops, and spaces to practice this ancient form of yodeling.

3. Echo vom Eierstock: This feminist yodel choir performs regularly, showcasing a contemporary take on traditional yodeling.

In the end, Switzerland’s yodeling tradition continues to evolve, reflecting the changing times while honoring its deep-rooted history. As the echoes of yodeling traverse through generations and cultures, one thing is clear—it’s a vibrant language of emotions and connections that transcends the peaks and valleys of time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Yodeling Renaissance

More about Yodeling Renaissance

• Switzerland Tourism
• Mark Twain’s “A Tramp Abroad”
• Bart Plantenga’s Yodeling Expertise
• UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
• Echo vom Eierstock