Swiss Yodeling Seeks UNESCO Recognition as Tradition Evolves
Government seeks status for evolving yodeling tradition at UNESCO.
Switzerland's government is pursuing recognition for yodeling from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Once a traditional mountain call used by herders, yodeling has transformed into a sung form of folk music.
The Swiss Yodeling Association counts approximately 12,000 participants across about 780 groups.
Historically performed mainly by men, yodeling is now increasingly embraced by women in Switzerland.
Various regional styles exist within the country; northern regions are known for slower, melancholic sounds, while central areas produce more intense and shorter tones.
Teaching has begun in Swiss schools to preserve and carry forward this evolving tradition.
UNESCO's committee on Intangible Heritage will decide by year-end whether to add yodeling to its list, which aims to spotlight traditions passed down through generations.
Once a traditional mountain call used by herders, yodeling has transformed into a sung form of folk music.
The Swiss Yodeling Association counts approximately 12,000 participants across about 780 groups.
Historically performed mainly by men, yodeling is now increasingly embraced by women in Switzerland.
Various regional styles exist within the country; northern regions are known for slower, melancholic sounds, while central areas produce more intense and shorter tones.
Teaching has begun in Swiss schools to preserve and carry forward this evolving tradition.
UNESCO's committee on Intangible Heritage will decide by year-end whether to add yodeling to its list, which aims to spotlight traditions passed down through generations.
