The Evolution of Voice: Why My Voice Got Higher During Puberty
Everyone's voice journey is unique, especially during the transition from childhood to adulthood. As a 17-year-old, I remember my voice being much deeper during my younger years, around ages 9 to 14. However, in recent times, my voice has become significantly higher in pitch. This article delves into the reasons behind such changes and highlights the importance of understanding the factors that influence voice development during puberty.
Puberty and Voice Changes
During puberty, which typically occurs between ages 9 and 14 for boys, significant changes reshape the body, including the voice. Often, the voice drops in pitch as the larynx (voice box) grows and the vocal cords lengthen. However, for those who experienced a deeper voice at a younger age, it's important to consider several factors.
Hormonal Changes
The onset of puberty and the associated hormonal changes play a crucial role in voice development. If you entered puberty later than your peers, your voice may have deepened later as well. Hormones such as testosterone stimulate the growth of the larynx, leading to a deeper voice.
Temporary Changes
Before puberty, some children might have a deeper voice due to genetic and developmental factors. Such changes can sometimes revert or adjust as puberty progresses, but they can also influence the voice's pitch and tone.
Vocal Technique
Vocal habits can also play a significant role in the pitch of your voice. If you became more conscious of your speaking style or started using a higher pitch more frequently, this could have influenced the current pitch of your voice.
Individual Variation
Each person's body develops at different rates. While many people experience a deeper voice during puberty, some may retain a higher pitch. This individual variation is perfectly normal and reflects the unique nature of human development.
Understanding Voice Changes at Age 17
Is it possible for a voice to get deeper at 17? At least to the point of reaching frequencies around 90-100HZ? The answer is generally no, as the vocal cords typically stop growing around 18-20 years of age, making your voice more or less permanent during that period. The larynx stops growing, and the vocal cords stabilize at their current size, locking in the voice's pitch.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Genetic factors may influence an individual's voice, making it higher despite the typical trend. Some individuals might even experience slight changes in pitch as they age due to changes in vocal habits, lung capacity, and overall vocal technique.
Puberty and Voice Development Beyond 17
It's important to note that voice development doesn't stop at 17. Some experts suggest that voices continue to mature well into the mid-twenties. Thus, any changes in your voice around age 17 should not be considered fully permanent. Continued development can still occur, and care should be taken when singing to protect the vocal cords.
Additionally, vocal technique plays a critical role in the pitch of your voice. Some individuals might gain higher notes as their voices mature due to greater lung capacity and the ability to sustain higher notes. Everyone is unique, and no single rule fully applies to everyone.
Conclusion
Voice changes during puberty and beyond are a natural part of human development, influenced by hormonal changes, genetic factors, and individual variations. If you're concerned about these changes or notice significant alterations, it might be beneficial to consult with a voice coach or a medical professional specializing in voice and speech. As a 17-year-old, it's essential to care for your voice and understand its development process.
Remember, every journey is unique, and the evolution of your voice is a testament to your body's ongoing development. Embrace these changes and understand that they are natural and expected.