Valentine Cards

by Teresa Jennings

There's something about this chord progression that feels so familiar and nostalgic. Probably because it calls to mind any number of favorite old tunes. Besides the progression, this song is set in a retro rock 'n' roll style that also harkens back a few decades. It's okay to let your performers sing it stylistically for the era. Listen to our singers on the full recording for an example and also to hear how it all fits together.

While part 2 is technically optional, it really does add a lot to the piece. Sometimes it's a background vocal type of line, sometimes it's a duet, and sometimes it's a response to a call. The result is a fun blend of melody and harmony. We have isolated a part 2 rehearsal track for you and put it on our web site, in case that helps.

A nice and obvious extension of this tune is the use of Valentine cards. In a performance, kids could be holding cards that they use for props or even movement. Gentle swaying or bouncing to the beat, varying by sections of the tune could be pretty effective. If it's a classroom setting, making cards is the perfect activity. Give students a little guidance of what's okay (and not) and make sure you have plenty of art supplies on hand.

Text is taken from Music K-8 magazine.