We Made It Happen

by Tom & Lynn Crowell

Your students have worked hard this year, so now they get to sing about it! Whether it's an actual graduation or just a ceremony of accomplishment, let them sing this with as much sass and pride as possible. The powerful rhythm section on the recording should fuel them. You'll want to convince them to perform "like no one is watching," meaning to have a total blast, walk the walk, and not to worry about what anyone thinks. If everyone gives it their all, they will have enormous amounts of fun with this!

After your students set the tone, you can focus on the musical aspects, such as the rhythm. It's a bit tricky here and there, so they'll need to pay attention and watch your conducting. Once they learn it, it should all fall into place nicely, making their success even more satisfying.

To challenge some/all of your students, let them do the indicated hand claps. The accompaniment recording includes digital claps for them as a guide.

Make this happen, too!

Choreographer Melissa Schott has come up with some ideas for you to plug in to your performance, too, if you're so inclined. Which means you have options for making this piece even more special. Melissa has created a movement video with ideas and suggestions for you to use as is, or alter any way you like for your students. You can find her video and teaching notes at our web site for free!

Text is taken from Music K-8 magazine.