Overview
- A UNESCO committee meeting in New Delhi is reviewing Switzerland’s nomination, with a decision expected by December 13.
- Project lead Barbara Betschart says the bid seeks to counter perceptions of yodeling as old-fashioned and to support teaching in primary schools.
- The Eidgenössischer Jodlerverband counts about 12,000 active members and enforces strict competition rules, including score submissions and correct costume.
- A contemporary “wild yodeling” scene prizes improvisation and blends with genres like jazz, rock, techno and rap, with performers highlighting a lively Zurich community.
- Proponents stress distinct Swiss practices—such as emphasis on the vowels O, U and sometimes Ü—while noting that UNESCO already lists yodeling traditions from Zimbabwe and Georgia.