Comedian Michael Winslow can likely get more sounds out of his vocal chords than anybody else. But even the star of the Police Academy movies can't begin to replicate the full potential of the human voice. And it's that potential - to soothe, to entertain, to anger and perhaps to connect us - that so fascinates Elena Passerello. She has penned a series of essays - some funny, all fascinating - about voices in all their glory and their gusto.

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 Let me clear my throat: Elena Passarello

Marlon Brando's harrowing cry of longing in the film version of A Street Car Named Desire;  a great moment in U.S. cinema. It's inspired many screamers since. In fact, for the past quarter century Brando wannabees have competed in the the Stella Shout Out competition in Jackson Square, New Orleans. In 2011 the contest was won by Elena Passerello - an actor, voice performer and the author of the new book 'Let Me Clear My Throat'. It's a collection of essays exploring unforgettable moments in the history of the human voice, including the war cry of Confederate soldiers to the venerated, if disturbing, sound of the Castrati. Elena Passarello joined me from Corvallis, Oregon.

This segment was produced by The Current's Josh Bloch.

Other segments from today's show:

• Is official Indian status good or bad for Métis people?
•  The Healing Place: Documentary