¡Feliz Cumpleaños!

Who doesn't love to hear a resounding "Happy birthday!" on their special day? It's even more fun when you sing it. Over the years we've provided you with a number of great songs to celebrate birthdays – "Birthday Boogie" (Music K-8, Vol. 17, No. 3), "It's Your Birthday!" (Music K-8, Vol. 6, No. 5), and "Whacky Birthday" (Music K-8, Vol. 13, No. 1) to name a few. Now we're offering "¡Feliz Cumpleaños!" which gives you the opportunity to wish someone a happy birthday in another language. This short, festive song will teach you and your students how to say "Happy birthday!" and "Happy birthday to you!" in Spanish.

The melody is catchy and simple to learn, and you have the option of adding claps. You could use the provided rhythm on the score, or you could make up your own. It might also be fun to add several different rhythm band instruments – rhythm sticks, claves, shakers, guiros, etc. Write out some rhythms for your kids to play, or just let them make up their own. The accompaniment features a lot of Latin percussion (including timbales, conga, bongos, etc.), along with winds, rhythm section, and an awesome solo nylon guitar.

By the way, the tempo marking for this song, con la felicidad, means "with happiness." Also, for your convenience, there is a pronunciation guide available on our web site.