I for one don't think it should all be about age. I mean just because you're 12 shouldn't mean that people won't take you seriously. Mind you, I'm almost 14 so I am in the same position as well. But if it a necessity to be seventeen before you start, you could always do it now for practice over the coming years.

i didnt mean to sound horrible about saying its all about age, but very few young children make it, or they make it and are then forgotten about in yeras to come. I just dont like the idea of a child not having there childhood and missing out on it. I think you should sing if you love it but do it because you love it for now not to become famous, have lessons etc so that when your older you have it all under your belt.
Im sorry to have sounded horible.
xx

I think Bex has wise words there and I can see where she's coming from too.
If you enjoy singing you should sing, have as much fun as possible and just learn, practice and have fun with listening to what your voice can do.
I don't think it's good to use your voice just to try and get into fame. It's nice to perform and get as much experience with performing in local talent shows and events as possible because that helps build confidence and belief in yourself that you can get up and sing.
It's easy to say that you want to do one thing or another in performing, and getting to your goal takes time too, but if you really work at it, get experience first and as you go find out more about things you can be involved with performing groups, that should help you .
I think if you push yourself into doing too much too soon that's where problems may occur, you don't know how to deal with what's happening or you may not be able to get out of a situation you're not comfortable with.
Just do what you can and learn from other people. Talking to people who do various performing can help too so they can tell you their experience, then you've an idea of what to expect and look out for.

Have fun with the singing and good luck....NEVER GIVE UP...KEEP GOING, it works!

Kate.