Perform a rhythmic accompaniment with hand-claps and unpitched percussion.
Optional: play an introduction and ending on Soprano recorders
Materials
Optional: toy birds or laminated pictures of birds
Rhythms on cardstock
Unpitched rhythm instruments
Optional: Soprano recorders
Instructions
Stand in two lines. As you listen to the song, keep the steady beat by passing multiple birds down the line until they are placed in a nest (basket). Laminated nature pictures of birds from the song can be used, or simply realistic stuffed animals.
What birds are mentioned in the song? (jaybird, robin, swallow, chickadee, owl, crow, raven, buzzard, oriole). Show a picture of what each bird looks like in nature.
This is a rock and roll song from 1958. It was sung by Bobby Day. Have you heard any other versions of this song? (Michael Jackson sang it in 1972. It has also been sung in many TV shows and movies.)
Sing the song together.
What is sung in the introduction? (Tweedlelee deedlelee dee) Practice the tongue twister. Sing slowly, emphasizing each syllable, then increase the tempo.
Where does the first verse start? (He rocks in the treetop).
Where does the chorus start? (Rockin' Robin, tweet, tweet, tweet). Stand up and dance when the chorus is sung!
Where does the bridge start? (A pretty little raven)
Add a rhythmic accompaniment to the introduction and verse of the song. When successful with hand claps, transfer to unpitched rhythm instruments.
Rhythmic accompaniment for the introduction. Clap: Rest, Ta, Rest, Ta. Can you guess how to notate this? Write it on cardstock.
Rhythmic accompaniment for the verse. Clap: Rest, Ti-Ti, Rest, Ta. Can you guess how to notate this? Write it on cardstock.
Optional recorder part: Play the introduction and ending on Soprano recorders. Due to the fast tempo, simplify the triplets to quarter notes. Notes used: G, A, B, (3rd space) C.
Perform entire song with hand-claps, rhythm instruments, dancing and recorders. On the chorus, hold up bird pictures, toy birds and feathers, if desired. Have fun!
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