This paper reviews briefly the current state of knowledge on male adolescent growth and voice change. It is suggested that perceived level of comfort is not a suitable method of assessing the best sung pitch range for a boy whose voice is changing. More objective means are available. Discussion of the relationship between growth, physical stress and anxiety levels is introduced with a focus upon the catastrophe model of performance. This is offered as an explanation for why a boy whose voice is changing may appear fine in rehearsal but then suffer a humiliating breakdown during performance. A model of best practice suggests that the teenage boy may not be fully aware of what is happening to his voice. The safe duration of any extended period of higher-pitched singing during conditions of cognitive anxiety should be a matter for expert judgement. Choral foundations are urged to ensure that this is available.
Key words boys, growth, voice change, health, efficiency, stress, anxiety, performance, voice loss, catastrophe