New Tune Tuesday: Stop and Go Jig

I have always loved to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, and this year I have even more reason to enjoy the holiday. The day after St. Patrick's Day my husband and I will be off to spend ten days between the Emerald Isle and London! I can't wait to take in the sights, people, and especially the music! But for now I am excited to share the "Stop and Go Jig" with you today!

About a month ago a student asked if I had any trombones I could bring in. I said I only have three flutes, and the entire class has asked me to bring one in since then. I promised I would bring it in around St. Patrick's Day, and alas the "Stop and Go Jig" was born!. I wanted a creative movement song, where I could expose them to the flute. Very rarely have I used it in music therapy sessions, and it is a shame to let those years of lessons go to waste. I can't wait for Thursday to play this for that class. I really think they are going to enjoy it!

The "Stop and Go Jig" is a freeze dance in nature, but with an Irish twist. Not only is it set against the melody of "Connie Walsh's Slide", but the students are encouraged to imitate traditional Irish dancers. The lyrics instruct the students to:

When the music plays
Arms at your sides
And stand up nice and tall
Then jump and kick
'Till the music stops
Erin Go Braugh

 Two versions of the song are available as a FREE download. The first version runs straight through the song with no pauses. Have your remote ready to abruptly stop the the music where you like. The unedited version may also better suit your needs if you have students who take longer to stop their bodies. The second version has built in pauses to practice stopping and going.

So starting this Sunday I will be taking a hiatus from the online world. I have debated about recording two songs to be released during my absence, but have made the tough decision to hold off. I don't want to rush and record something quickly for the mere sake of releasing a song. I want to make sure I put something out there that is of quality. So, look for the next New Tune Tuesday to come your way the first Tuesday of April. Also, keep a lookout for a completely new design of this website. I hope to have that all ready by April as well!