A Cappella Arrangement First Attempt
Arrange a simple song for voices only — one person sings the melody, one does the bass line, one keeps a beat. No instruments, just human voices making harmony.
What You'll Need
- 1Phone for recording
- 2Optional: lyrics printed for the melody singer
What You'll Need
A phone for recording the performance
Optional: printed lyrics for the melody singer
3 or more people (2 can work in a pinch)
How to Play
Choose a simple, universally known song: "Happy Birthday," "Let It Be," "Stand By Me," or "Lean on Me."
Assign the melody to one singer — they carry the main tune that everyone recognizes. The strongest, most confident singer gets this part.
Assign a bass part to another person. They sing low, sustained root notes that anchor the harmony: "Buuuum... buuuum..." slow and steady.
Assign a beat keeper who provides rhythm using mouth sounds: a simple "dm-ts-dm-ts" pattern (light beatbox), finger snaps, or thigh pats.
Practice each part separately until every person is confident in their role.
Bring all parts together slowly. The beat starts first, the bass joins after 4 beats, then the melody enters. Building layers.
Record the final assembled performance. Play it back and marvel at what human voices alone can create.
Tips
The bass part is simpler than it seems: just sing the lowest note you can that sounds like it "fits" with the melody. If the melody is in C, sing a low C and hold it.
A cappella means "in the manner of the chapel" — singing without instruments. It's one of the oldest forms of music and it's making a huge comeback through groups like Pentatonix.
The beat keeper's job is the glue. If the rhythm wavers, everything falls apart. Steady, consistent, and confident beats hold the group together.
Watch Pentatonix or Straight No Chaser videos for jaw-dropping a cappella inspiration. Kids are amazed at what voices alone can do.
This activity builds ensemble skills that transfer to any group music setting: listening to others while maintaining your own part, adjusting volume, and blending.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 25 min, with 0 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: phone for recording, optional: lyrics printed for the melody singer.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 8-12 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This is a more challenging activity that may require advance preparation, special materials, or closer supervision. The extra effort is worth it for the learning experience!
Ratings & Reviews
Sign in to leave a rating or review.
Add to Your Weekly Plan
Schedule this activity into your family's week. It takes about 25 min.
Free account required to save plans
Explore More
Love this activity?
Create a free account and add it to your weekly planner. Discover hundreds more activities matched to your child's age.