Alisha Reeve MUSE 356 Choral Methods Citation Directing the Choral Music Program Chapter 7: Rehearsal and

d Performance Planning Kenneth H. Phillips 2004 Discussion What are the physical characteristics of the female voice change? During the first stage of the female voice change, generally between the ages of 8 and 10, the voice becomes more flutelike. There is no difficulty singing between the upper and lower ranges of the voice. During the second stage, ages 1114, breathiness becomes present. There is much more difficulty transition between upper and lower ranges and cracking becomes more common. Soon after this huskiness develops in the voice. This is due to the vocal folds thickening and the muscles of the larynx become congested. During this time a very small range is most comfortable. In this stage the mutation chink forms which prevent the vocal folds from coming completely together. This allows air to escape during phonation and causes a breathy quality to the voice. During stage three, ages 14 to 15, the breathy quality begins to diminish. There is again ease of transition between upper and lower registers. Most girls will have a richer tone, vibrato will begin to appear for some, and volume, resonance, and agility increase. I think that information on the female voice change is very important. Many people overlook this change, focusing only on the male voice change. I think this is a mistake. It is important to recognize that all voices are experiencing changes during

puberty and that singing at this age can be trying for anyone. Choosing repertoire can be very difficult during this period.