If you’re considering taking up voice lessons, one of the most important questions you need to ask yourself is when to start. There are many factors that come into play. Some children are better suited for early voice lessons, while others may find voice lessons too structured for their development. Fortunately, there are many ways to find the right age for voice lessons. Listed below are the top reasons why you should start lessons at a young age.
Pre-pubescents
The vocal cords of a pre-pubescent child are thin and small, similar to those of an adult. As a child reaches puberty, they begin to grow thicker and are used to singing high notes. A pre-pubescent child’s vocal cords are still developing and singing songs that are too low may wear out a constantly developing voice. Also, singing too high is not conducive to vocal range improvement.
While the exact age when children can begin voice lessons varies, a general rule of thumb is between eleven and twelve years old. Ultimately, this decision is made by parents, and voice coaches can give specific advice. If your child is younger, the voice lessons may not be suitable because it will be difficult to focus for a long period of time. Regardless of age, it’s a good idea to find a voice teacher who is experienced in working with pre-pubescent children.
Pre-pubescent females
It is important for young children to start voice lessons at an early age, especially when their vocal cords are still growing. Pre-pubescent females have thinner vocal cords than adult singers do. Because they are still growing, their tessitura is naturally higher, making it harder to sing high notes, but singing in the lower range is not healthy for them, either. Instead, they should focus on learning to sing at a higher pitch.
Before the first lesson, parents should ask about the health of their child. Pre-pubescent girls should be particularly careful to check themselves before the lesson. Although they are excited to begin, children can be unreliable when it comes to their own health. Parents must listen closely and pick up on any signs of illness. After a few weeks, pre-pubescent females should begin voice lessons. The voice will still change, so parents should continue to check on the progress of the child.
Pre-pubescent males
Whether or not pre-pubescent males should start voice lessons is up to their parents, but early training is highly recommended. This type of voice training can benefit the entire vocal development process. Lessons should be fun, age-appropriate, and taught by an experienced vocal instructor. Male voice lessons should include singing low notes in the chest and middle mix registers, as well as higher notes in the upper “soprano” head register.
Before puberty, young children’s vocal cords are thin and flexible. Both sexes have small vocal cords, so pre-pubescent males and females should start taking voice lessons while they still have this flexibility. Adult singers develop thick and thin vocal cords, which makes it easier to sing high notes, but can be uncomfortable for young kids. Young kids have smaller, lighter vocal cords and may have difficulty singing low notes.