Paper Lanterns

This little piece is a great way to combine voices, recorders, mallets, and unpitched percussion in one easy tune. It's only 17 bars long, so you may want to repeat it if you feel you want more. One of the best things about a song like this is its flexibility. Pretty much every part is optional. You can mix and match, or even substitute, any of the parts you like. For example, you could use Boomwhackers® in addition to or instead of one of the other pitched parts. Use what you have. Adapt as needed. You could also just use piano and voices, but it's not nearly as much fun.

This tune is also flexible in its topical use. While it doesn't say so, it could be used in conjunction with your Chinese New Year celebration as paper lanterns are iconic then. Similar celebrations or occasions are also possible for thematic use, though truly, none is needed.

On the recording you will hear a two measure set-up played on mallet keyboards. This is so that your students who enter in the first bar will have a reference to follow.

On our web site, we have a few extras for you. We have extracted the parts, which you can download and reproduce as much as needed. We have also created a special mix that has only percussion and recorders. Students can use this version to rehearse or just for inspiration.

If you decide to actually have paper lanterns as part of a unit or performance, we seriously suggest using them without fire. While the vision of glowing lanterns may be charming and fanciful, it is also dangerous. If your students balk, it might be a good time to invite your local fire marshal to talk to them about fire safety.