*from STONES HILL SONGS*
This is an old folk song passed down by oral tradition over many generations. Its charm and simplicity have stood the test of time and to this day it evokes a magical unfolding of nature that captures any child's imagination. What makes it so special is the fact that all the elements are good and 'fine'.
The tune is well shaped and gently repetitive, lending itself to some improvised embellishment if the teacher so wishes. It's worth modulating up if possible to stretch both the voice and the ear. It can be sung gently, without hurry, using pause and 'rubato' as if telling a tale - which is exactly what it is doing. It is a song with a story.
The song gathers momentum, accumulating along the way. This practice using sequencing and memory is a well-loved as a classic children's game. The accompanying movements helps to reinforce the patterning and can be performed in dance-like fashion.
Several versions have been demonstrated to accompany 'the green grass growing all around' - the choice is up to the teacher depending on the age and ability of the group. I have used it with very young ages all the way up to 8/ 9 year olds.
All in the wood there was a tree
the finest tree you ever did see
the tree was in the ground
and the green grass grew all around, all around
the green grass grew all around
Now on this tree there was a branch
the finest branch you ever did see
the branch was on the tree....
Now on this branch there was a twig.....
Now on this twig there were some leaves....
Now in the leaves there was a nest....
Now in the nest there was an egg....
Now in the egg there was a bird....
Explore the collection of Stones Hill songs listed below - share them with people whom you know will use and enjoy them. Please acknowledge source and composer if piece is used for public performance - copyright Liz Campbell, Stones Hill songs. Feedback would also be appreciated - how the song works for you, how you may have used it: liz.jessam@gmail.com
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/08/figure-of-8_26.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/08/so-many-things-my-body-can-do.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/08/i-was-walking-along_26.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/08/come-on-and-dance-like-clown.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/08/i-have-eyes-to-see.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/08/one-little-thumb.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/08/good-morning_26.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/08/all-join-hands-and-make-circle_26.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/09/come-on-everybody.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-little-body_26.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/10/choosing_1.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/10/i-have-one_12.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/10/alphabet-bounce_87.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/11/lift-your-voice-and-sing.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2018/12/farewell-song.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2019/03/i-went-shopping.html
https://connectsongdance.blogspot.com/2019/03/creepy-crawly_10.html
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