Springtime Sunshine
by Mike Wilson
"Springtime!" It's just a happy word. And "Springtime Sunshine" is just a happy song. Lots of I, IV, and V chords, lyrics about springy things, and handclaps combine to offer an upbeat, smiley presentation, reminiscent of The Archies from long ago.
This is mostly a 2-part song during the choruses, unison during the verses. The part 1 melody line is very simple and can work well with younger groups. You can even sing the whole thing in unison if you'd rather. Part 2 simply harmonizes with the melody during the choruses. It stays between middle C and the G above it at the lower end of the range. You will find a part 2 rehearsal mix on our web site for your convenience. (See details on page 70.) And if you have a budding star in your group (like our own Mattie Tom), there's a brief, optional part 3 on the last chorus to cut loose on.
About handclaps – the claps are pretty integral to the happy factor. We had the percussionist play the handclap line with a cowbell. You will hear that in the accompaniment mix. It wouldn't be out of character if you had a kid or two play percussion instruments on the part as well.
Text is taken from Music K-8 magazine.