Kristen makes some useful points and I agree - the SingUp training on this is excellent.

Just one 'correction' worth pointing out. Audacity is not only free to download - it is also completely free to use. (make sure you download the lame mp3 encoder as well from the Audacity site). I am aware that there are some rogue companies out there who are actually trying to sell free software - usually by packaging it with some trivial extras. Avoid these and go straight to the Audacity main site for download. http://audacity.sourceforge.net/

Have you thought about doing a unit on Beatboxing? I've found the SingUp organisation really helpful in providing training and have recently done a 5-week unit with my Year 5 classes to great success (despite not being able to properly beatbox myself!).

In the past with similar Year 6 classes, I've used one of the current songs getting lots of radio play and used it as a arrangement/composition project. Depending on whether there are any instrumentalists, you could have unlimited parts - they can all learn a drum pattern and simple bass line, either on keyboards or tuned percussion and obviously have the main melody and lyrics. This project really helped my classes learn about texture, harmony / melody, arrangement and even improvisation.If the idea of performance/competition inspires them, you could organise their work to be performed in an 'X Factor' type environment (either in class or for the rest of your school). If you have access to any software (e.g Audacity - which is free to download from the internet, but you can't save on it unless you purchase it; Ableton Live, MULAB, O-Generator or Garage Band (on Apple Macs)) you could use that too for a much greater variety of instruments/sound effects.

Hi there,
One recommendation might be to hand them the reins a little bit and get them working on a musical show to show the rest of the school. For example Oliver, Joseph and The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Anthony and Cleopatra. This will not only focus them as they will have a deadline to work to, they will be able to use their love of performance. There are a wide range of shows and cantatas suitable for a variety of key stages (that are also 'cool' to do) on www.musicroom.com. Feel free to have a browse on there. If you need some more guidance, feel free to email me and i would be happy to recommend more based on your exact requirements. Also, i can send you a catalogue (free of charge) which also lists the ranges.
There are also some good and topical environmental related shows they can do which can easily be learnt within 6 weeks. The class can get involved in costumes and the theme can be linked into the geography/current issues element of their learning. Most of the shows have backing CDs to help with rehearsals!
Hope this helps
Best of Luck
Laura
laura.newmarch@musicsales.co.uk