Re: Finger in Ear.

". . . is it documented anywhere that, over the centuries, some fishermen, farmers, miners, peasants, etc. did indeed do that...?"

For your information, David, if you observed someone singing with his "finger in his ear," then I think you misinterpreted what you saw. No wonder it didn't help. Many singers find that if they cup a hand behind an ear, it helps them hear the sound of their own voice. Especially in a large room or auditorium, cupping a hand behind your ear helps you hear the reverberation of your own voice.

I don't usually do it myself because my hands are occupied with my guitar. I have done it sometimes when I'm singing unaccompanied, and it does give some good "feedback." It could possibly help you stay on pitch.

Remember:   don't put a finger in you ear. Cup a hand behind an ear. By the way, use your dominant ear. The one you automatically use when talking on the telephone.

AND REMEMBER THIS! It has absolutely nothing to do with culture or tradition. Whether or not it is done by fishermen, farmers, miners, peasants, etc., is not relevant.

Don Firth