Blueberry Waltz (in G for Recorders)

by Teresa Jennings

The primary idea for this gentle waltz was to give beginning guitar students a tune to practice a few notes on the first E string. (Be sure players use downpicks only.) However, the more we worked with this tune, the more we realized it was a sweet duet for singers as well. So we decided to add the lyrics right to the guitar parts. If you do use it vocally, you will need to take it down an octave. The words are super simple so that guitars can sing and play at the same time easily. In both cases, part 2 does not occur until the repeat. That way, you get to hear the melody first.

We also realized that, given the limitations, this would be a nice recorder piece. So we transposed it to G and gave you parts for that as well. We did not put the lyrics on this version 'cause we figured players can't sing at the same time. But if you want to have others sing with them, you can sure do that. Just grab the lyrics from the guitar parts.

You can incorporate a simple percussion pattern to go with this piece, too, if you want. We suggest rhythm sticks and triangle. A simple pattern, such as the one we have here, is probably best, but as always with our stuff, adjust it to work with your students however you like.

Online, you will find a few free downloadable things for this tune: A piano/guitar score, a piano/recorder score, and a TAB version for guitar students who prefer to read that way.

Online extras - The free, downloadable extras mentioned can be found under "Graphics and Extras" for Volume 21, No. 1 at MusicK8.com

Text is taken from Music K-8 magazine.