Champions

This very energetic song can be used in a variety of ways. It can be used for motivation, for character focus, for graduations or accomplishment ceremonies, or for competitions of just about any type. In fact, competitions might be the way you and your students choose to use the piece this year as the world prepares for the next Summer Olympics. A discussion of what it takes to become an Olympic champion would be an excellent cross curricular study, emphasizing the importance of a person's character, discipline, and skill. Of course, all of these characteristics - and those mentioned in the song - are good topics for any type of motivational activity, not just the Olympics.

The recording of this piece is quite powerful, employing both a rock rhythm section and an orchestra. The 12/8 shuffle feel (played masterfully by our amazing drummer, Dane Clark) moves things along nicely, though students only need to read the music in 4/4. Of particular note on the CD is the excellent electric guitar work of our very own Sandy Williams. We do recommend that you use the recording with this piece, if possible, as it would not have the same majesty and impact if it were just played on piano. (Besides, you wouldn't be able to include the guitar solos, which are integral to the song.)

You will note that the song is written in unison until the very end when it breaks into an optional divisi. We wanted the song to be usable by students in any grade, and despite the complex instrumental background, we feel that it is. (For very young students, you may wish to let them sing along with the full performance version for reinforcement.)

During the second time at measure 17, there is a spoken part which we suggest be broken into spoken solos. If you can, select a different soloist for each word. Or at least use several soloists who alternate. If possible, teach the students to say their words approximately on beat 3 of each measure where they occur. The recording offers a good example of how this section works together.

If you are staging this song in a performance or ceremonial setting, you may wish to add movement or at least some gestures on key words. For example, every time they sing "Champions," have them put a fist on their chests for the first two syllables, then up into the air for the last syllable. At the end of the song, have them raise both fists up simultaneously for "the big finish." You could also use some or all of the song as a processional or recessional. Students could sing along or not, as your situation dictates.