In The Trades

It could be argued that this song captures the entire essence of the revue. Right out of the gate, it puts forward the questions: Do you like to fix things? Do you like to build? Do you like to make things with your hands? If the answers are in the affirmative, then the trades just might be right for you.

Set in an old-timey folk style, this tune is very comfortable even though it's energetic. It also has a bit of familiarity that makes it feel natural to sing. This is especially true at the chorus which begins with a literal pause in the music in order to set up the next moment (measure 10 into 11). We have no doubt your singers will enjoy the chord building in bars 17 and 18 as well. It, too, incorporates a hard stop, but this time it's at the end of the phrase. The exception to this is three bars from the end when the groove continues and singers hold out the notes. Just to be safe, we actually indicate (no stop) on the music. You will also see that we have indicated a few N.B.'s (no breath) here and there. These are suggestions, but you should do what works with your singers.

If you use the optional second part, you'll hear that the two parts feather together quite nicely. Part 2 varies from backgrounds, to answers, to harmony, adding vocal interest and challenge for capable singers. When it joins part 1 for the chord building, it breaks into an optional divisi that is, well, just plain fun. This recurs on the repeat and later toward the end of the song as well. They will also need to be aware of when the groove stops and starts and when it doesn't. To help them learn the part, we have isolated part 2 and put it on our web site for you.

Starting at the chorus (bar 11), you will see that there are also claps indicated on the offbeats. These are optional, but add an element of movement and excitement if you can do them. But as with the vocal parts, singers will need to pay attention to the stops and starts. They're indicated on the music.

We're particularly fond of the accompaniment track for this one. If you have a chance to play it for your students, please do. It features acoustic guitar, bass, banjo, dobro, 12-string guitar, mandolin, drums using brushes, and harmonica (which doubles part 2 vocals on the repeat). All of the stringed instruments including the picking solos were played ever-so-tastefully by our own Sandy Williams. And special thanks to our friend Mike Wilson for volunteering to "build in" a little special detail with the harmonica.