Traditionell schweizisk joddling förs vidare från generation till generation | NTD NYHETER

Swiss yodeling has earned recognition from UNESCO. The practice is passed down from generation to generation, a fixture of Swiss culture. NTD's Andrew Thomas has more on a local group keeping the tradition alive. In the Alpine village of Adelboden, a yodeling club is warming up. Adrian Reiter has headed the group for years, learning the traditional art form from his father. The music has passed from one generation to the next, entirely by ear. Each region has its own style, passed down through generations. It is traditionally cultivated and handed down from one generation to the next. These melodies are memorized, they are not actually written down. And that is how the tradition is passed on. Yodeling sessions in Switzerland aren't just musical, they're social events that bring the community together. The country has over 700 yodeling clubs, with a total of around 12,000 yodelers. But it takes years to develop the required technique. Reiter provides a demonstration. You really have to practice, practice, practice, so that you master it properly. And that is also a question of breathing. Breathing is important, as is the perception of one's own body. And warming up the voice is also relevant. It is all somewhat a question of training, but also of a lot of talent. Natural yodeling doesn't have lyrics, with regional variations reflecting local dialects. Another variety combines sung verses with a yodeled refrain, offering an opportunity to create new, unique music. Earlier this year, UNESCO added yodeling to its list of intangible cultural heritage. Reiter appreciates the recognition, but hopes the art form remains the same. I think it is wonderful that it has now been recognized as a world heritage. But we must be careful that it truly preserves the tradition, and that traditional yodeling remains paramount. Because there are also styles where yodeling is practiced almost like classical singing. That is not really the authentic form. Hotelier Association President Matthias Funkhauser says yodeling is ingrained in Swiss culture. He welcomes the UNESCO recognition. Yodeling is a part of Switzerland as cheese, chocolate and mountains, of course. It's a wonderful tribute to our culture and tradition. Switzerland is keeping its yodeling culture alive. There are around 70 children's and youth choirs throughout the country, drawing interest from the younger generations. Andrew Thomas, NTD News.