Abstract
This dissertation poses the use of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as the standardized means of notation for non-semantic vocal music. Three charts that encompass the entire range of symbols used for phonetic transcription by the International Phonetic Association are placed under scrutiny: the IPA chart, the Voice Quality Symbols and the extIPA Symbols for Disordered Speech. In light of several key works in this sub-genre by Brian Ferneyhough, George Aperghis and Dieter Schnebel, this study addresses the degree to which the use of the IPA produces successful notational results.