also: しらこえ
noun
shrill voice; high-pitched voice
Refers to a voice that is sharp, high, and often unpleasant or strained. Not a neutral descriptor for a high voice.
彼女の素声が耳に障る。
Her shrill voice grates on my ears.
noun
unaccompanied Heike Monogatari chanting
Specialized term in Heike biwa performance: the part of the narrative chanted without instrumental accompaniment. Usually written 素声.
See also: 平曲
平曲では、素声の部分が特に語りの力を見せる。
In Heike Monogatari chanting, the unaccompanied sections especially showcase the narrator's skill.
noun
unaccompanied poem section in noh
In noh, a portion of a poem or text delivered without instrumental backing. A technical performance term.
能の素声の箇所では、謡の抑揚が際立つ。
In the unaccompanied poem sections of noh, the vocal modulation stands out.
Compound of しら (white/pure) and 声 (voice). The exact derivation is uncertain; the spelling 素声 suggests 'unadorned voice,' fitting both the shrill and unaccompanied senses.