Voice characteristics of children aged between 6 and 13 years: impact of age, gender, and vocal training.

OBJECTIVE: To determine impact of age, gender, and vocal training on voice characteristics of children aged 6-13 years.

METHODS: Voice acoustic and phonetogram parameters were determined for the group of 44 singing and 31 non-singing children.

RESULTS: No impact of gender and/or age on phonetogram, acoustic voice parameters, and maximum phonation time was detected. Voice ranges of all children represented a pre-pubertal soprano type with a voice range of 22 semitones for non-singing and of 26 semitones for singing individuals. The mean maximum voice intensity was 81 dB. Vocal training had a positive impact on voice intensity parameters in girls.

CONCLUSION: The presented data on average voice characteristics may be applicable in the clinical practice and provide relevant support for voice assessment.