University launches country's first degree in yodelling

From the 2018-19 academic year it will be possible to study yodelling to degree level in Switzerland for the first time as the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts is adding yodelling to its folk music programme, offering both a three-year bachelor and a two-year masters degree in the alpine vocal technique, writes Caroline Bishop for The Local Switzerland.

The university has offered folk music degrees since 2012, and it now becomes the first in the country to offer the traditional Swiss art of yodelling at degree level. Students will not only learn yodelling skills but will also take modules in theory, history and business.

Speaking to the Tribune de Genève, Michael Kaufmann, head of the university’s music department, said he had long wanted to offer yodelling but couldn’t find a sufficiently qualified teacher – until now. The course will be taught by Nadja Räss, a Swiss yodelling star and trained vocal teacher who runs her own yodelling academy in Zurich.
Full report on The Local Switzerland site