How to Train a Boy’s Voice: Vocal Development, Puberty, and Repertoire That Works

Why do so few boys take voice lessons—and how can we change that?

In this episode, voice teacher and pedagogue Timothy Wilds joins Drew to unpack the science, strategy, and sensitivity required when training a boy’s voice. From understanding vocal fold changes during puberty to choosing repertoire that fits—not just vocally, but emotionally and developmentally—we explore what it means to meet boys where they are.

You’ll learn:

• What happens to the male voice during puberty—and why it matters for training
• Why thin fold/head voice is essential for pre-pubescent boys
• How to support vocal development without pushing too far, too fast
• Repertoire pitfalls to avoid—and what to choose instead
• The role of gender, identity, and storytelling in young singers’ repertoire
• Song suggestions across genres: art song, folk, musical theatre, and more

Whether you’re a voice teacher, choir director, or a parent supporting a young singer, this episode offers grounded, research-informed guidance for working with AMAB students in the crucial years before and during puberty.

🎧 VoSci Academy is launching July 2025!

Want science-backed training for singers and teachers? Join the interest list: https://voicescience.org/academy

Resources & Mentions:

• Art Song: Edward MacDowell’s Eight Songs, A Child’s Garden of Verses settings
• Folk/Familiar Tunes: Shenandoah, Lean on Me, Let’s Go Fly a Kite
• MT Roles for Boys: Oliver, Billy Elliot, The Secret Garden, Les Mis (Gavroche)
• Lesser-Known MT: Hook, Working, A Bronx Tale, Lost in the Stars