Our Constitution
by Teresa Jennings
From the military snare drums to the layered piccolos and flutes, to the majestic brass and strings, everything about this piece immediately evokes patriotism. Appropriate, given that the topic of this year's all-school musical revue (culminating in the third issue this year with music, script, teacher's guide, etc.) is the Constitution of the United States.
The lyrics of this song are limited by design, saying only what is needed to make the point: The Constitution is the law of the land. It defines the power and the limits of the government. It defines the rights and the power of the people. This is important information for today's children to know and the adults in their world to remember.
The first part of the song is in unison, allowing the message to be clear. Singers should let the pulse of the music drive their delivery in a marcato style. Enunciation is key. At bar 21, an optional second part enters. You will note the addition of accented notes on certain words. Really have them lay into those for emphasis, and keep the diction clean at the same time. The message is everything, so understanding it matters. On the repeat, part 2 joins in with somewhat of an echo combined with harmony. Cue students to enter and hold their own for the best effect. (If your singers need a little help with part 2, remember you can always invite older students or even adults to help out.)
At bar 37 the first time, the orchestra drops out suddenly leaving the piece a cappella, except for snare drums. A rock drum joins in with a halftime groove and singers clap on the backbeat of each bar. It's a cool moment, especially with the two parts. (Perhaps by this point your audience will be familiar enough with the music to join in. Invite them!) The second time at 37, the entire orchestra rejoins with a wall of sound, led by a couple of power guitars doubling the low brass. A counterpoint in the piccolos and flutes dances on top of it all culminating in the expected big ending. Be sure to remind students to add the accents in the last few measures for the proper emphasis.
To help you teach part 2, you will find a rehearsal track on our web site.
Text is taken from Music K-8 magazine.