When is the right age to begin singing lessons? Many parents are unsure of their child’s abilities. This article provides the requirements and signs of readiness. Learn more about the benefits of vocal training, what skills a child needs to begin voice lessons, and the differences between beginner and advanced classes. Let’s get to it!
Ideal Age to Start Singing Lessons
Most voice coaches start working with kids somewhere between the ages of 8 and 12. The reason for this is simple: a child’s vocal cords don’t fully develop until they are at least 6 years of age.
Plus, it’s important that the child is old enough to be able to grasp the basics of musical theory and learn techniques for improving their voices. Some experts do not recommend starting singing lessons until a child reaches puberty.
The ideal age to start singing lessons is when a child is ready to take instruction seriously and respect the teachers. It’s important to note that younger children cannot yet manage their own time and are unlikely to fully appreciate the lessons if they are forced to perform at an early age.
Signs that a Child is Ready
When a child starts to sing, they may not do it as well as you would like. But when will they be ready for lessons? Often times, this is combination of passion from the child’s perspective. But there are other things to keep in mind too.
For example, if your child’s pitch is good, they are more ready to get vocal training. You may also consider lessons if your child has to sing a lot for a show. Even if they are younger than the ideal starting age, If they’re going to be singing a lot, it’s best that they get some advice on how to learn how to sing in a healthy manner.
Requirements for Starting Voice Lessons
While many voice teachers will tell you that children can start taking voice lessons as early as eight years old, you can actually begin training your child earlier.
However, if your child is younger than that, it may be more difficult for them to focus and learn from a technical lesson. If you are unsure of your child’s readiness, find a singing coach who is willing and see how that first lessons goes.
Signs that a Child is Ready for Advanced Vocal Training
There are many advantages of singing for children and early exposure to music can help young voices develop naturally. While the voice cannot be fully cultivated until preteen years, it does benefit from regular exposure to singing.
The development of good vocal habits before the voice change helps inform the singer of how to better negotiate that change when it happens. But it’s still a process.
That said, if they’re passionate about singing, practice regularly, and want to find more and more ways to perform, you likely want to invest in more advanced vocal training. Just be sure to find the voice teacher that’s able to encourage them, challenge them, and help them move in the direction of their goals.