Boys’ Perceptions of Singing

Abstract

Boys seem to progress through phases in which they like to sing in early elementary school, they think that singing is for girls and, thus, unacceptable in late elementary school, and then, gradually, singing again becomes acceptable later in life. Studies speak to the difficulty that choir directors have in recruiting boys. Research shows that this may be because of the perception of singing as being feminine gendered. Many studies investigate this perception in older males, but few have investigated it in younger boys. This literature review explores the various reasons why males of all ages describe a negative perception of singing, focusing on younger boys. Suggestions for possible solutions are offered for practicing teachers in the field of vocal music.