If your child is going to audition for singing competitions, musical roles, or anything else that involves singing, they’re likely going to be asked to perform acapella. Singing without music or accompaniment helps music directors get a good grasp of the singer’s voice and stamina. It takes a lot more work to sing acapella than it does to sing with music. If your child is taking singing lessons in Seattle, they will likely be asked to sing acapella often. If they don’t have an assigned song to sing, what piece should they work on? Here are some of the best acapella songs.
Acapella Songs that are Perfect for Girls
These songs are perfect for girls and women to perform. While many are traditionally sung by one person, most of them can be arranged into a duet or sung by a group. For private singing teachers and students alike who love older songs, Aretha Franklin’s “Natural Woman” is probably already a go-to song. Your child can certainly show off their range here. “I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt is another classic. If your daughter would like to sing something more recent, “I Knew You Were Trouble” by Taylor Swift might be a good option. “Love Song” by Sara Bareilles is also an excellent acapella song.
Acapella Songs for Boys
Boys who need an acapella song also have a good range of options. “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel is a great choice, as is “Beat It” by Michael Jackson. Elton John’s “Candle in the Wind” can be a powerful audition song, especially if your child is great at putting emotion into their voice. For something a little more on the fun side, they might want to go with “Who Let the Dogs Out” by The Baha Men or “Hakuna Matata” from The Lion King. If your son is singing as part of a group, there are a lot of boy band options including “I Want it That Way” by the Backstreet Boys and “Mmm Bop” by Hanson.
Acapella Options for Mixed Groups and Mixed Duets
If your child is performing acapella in a group made up of boys and girls, they might want to look at songs that mix different voices. “A Whole New World” from the Disney movie Aladdin is one such song. “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” by Peter, Paul, and Mary is another option. Earth, Wind, and Fire’s “September”, Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors,” and John Denver’s “Country Roads” also make for good mixed group songs.
Traditional Acapella Songs
If your child is looking for something that falls into the traditional category, there are a lot of options out there. These songs work well for boys and girls. “My Way” by Frank Sinatra and “You’ve Got a Friend” by Carole King are very well-known songs. Your child might also enjoy “Moon River” by Barbra Streisand and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Eva Cassidy.
Contemporary Acapella Songs
A lot of young singers do enjoy performing more contemporary songs, though. While these aren’t always the best options for certain auditions, they can work really well for others. For example, contemporary songs are perfect if your child is auditioning for American Idol or another competition. They can sing everything from Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” and Adele’s “Hello” to Lady Gaga’s “A Million Reasons” and Michael Buble’s “Home.” While you might not think “Single Ladies” would work as an acapella song, it can actually be a great way for your child to show off their abilities.
Looking for a Great Vocal Teacher?
If your child is ready to start singing lessons, we’re here to provide the teacher. Our teachers will come right to your home for every lesson, plus we virtual music lessons, too. However, our online music lessons are being taught by local music teachers with live lessons tailored to your child! Contact us today to learn more.
