Let's Shake Hands

A real ice breaker, this light and bouncy tune ought to be a good one for just about any occasion where a welcome or greeting is needed. Students and audience alike will be inspired to move along with the happy country two-beat style.

On the recording, you will hear two solo fiddles at the beginning and intertwined with the melody throughout. (Our fiddles were played by violinists Phil Palermo and Larry Shapiro.) While most of the fiddle line is indicated on the piano/vocal, if you wish to have your own fiddle players perform, you will need to listen to the recording to imitate it. Or, they could certainly create their own fiddle parts to complement the singers!

We recommend that you decide who will be shaking hands with whom ahead of time to avoid confusion when using the song, especially in performance. Alternate partners for the best effect. Include the audience, if possible, by positioning some students close enough to shake hands with them at the appropriate times. The music includes pauses in the melody for performing the action.

One note: It might be a good idea to have your students wash their hands before and after performing this song. Just a thought...