Swiss Seek UNESCO Recognition for Yodeling as Cultural Heritage

The Swiss government is pursuing recognition from UNESCO to classify yodeling as an intangible cultural heritage. This decision, anticipated by the end of December 2023, aims to highlight yodeling’s evolution from traditional Alpine communication to a modern musical expression.

Yodeling has long been associated with the Swiss Alps, often characterized by distinctive calls and melodies. In recent years, this unique form of singing has expanded beyond its historical roots, gaining popularity across various music genres, including classical and jazz. Promoters argue that contemporary yodeling represents much more than the nostalgic echoes of male herders yodeling alongside their Alphorns.

According to **Nadja Räss**, a professor at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU), yodeling has become an integral part of Switzerland’s cultural identity, akin to a “fifth language” alongside the official German, French, Italian, and Romansh languages. The art form has evolved significantly, transitioning from “natural yodeling,” which focused on wordless vowel sounds, to more structured “yodeling songs” that feature lyrics and refrains.

Current statistics reveal that approximately 12,000 yodelers participate in around 780 groups associated with the Swiss Yodeling Association. Yodeling styles vary across Switzerland, with northern regions like Appenzell showcasing a more melancholic tone, while central areas exhibit shorter and more intense sounds.

The cultural significance of yodeling is underscored by its growing inclusivity. Once a predominantly male activity, yodeling is increasingly attracting women, reflecting broader societal changes in a country that granted women the right to vote only in the 1980s.

**Julien Vuilleumier**, a scientific advisor for the Federal Office of Culture, noted the challenges in tracing the origins of yodeling. He explained that some view it as a form of communication across valleys, while others regard it purely as a singing style. Regardless of its roots, Vuilleumier emphasizes that yodeling has continually adapted over time.

The upcoming decision by UNESCO’s committee for Intangible Heritage in New Delhi will consider yodeling alongside 68 other nominations, including traditional practices from various countries such as Myanmar and Venezuela. This classification aims to enhance public awareness of cultural traditions passed down through generations.

Rässl indicates that candidates for the intangible heritage list must outline future prospects for their cultural practices. To this end, HSLU has initiated projects to introduce yodeling in primary schools, with 20 teachers currently incorporating yodeling into their curricula. “One of my life goals is that when I die, every school child in Switzerland will have experienced yodeling during their primary education,” she remarked.

As the Swiss government awaits UNESCO’s decision, the potential recognition of yodeling could serve as a significant boost to its cultural preservation efforts. This move not only honors a cherished tradition but also promotes its relevance in contemporary society, ensuring yodeling continues to resonate with future generations.