Tuesday was a sweet experience; I had the opportunity to visit North Park Elementary in Logan, UT. It was heart-warming to have the children so excited to see me; asking random questions and requesting specific songs. A child’s spirit is an amazing creation in its own regard– they have a gleam and an innocence that is inspiring.
While playing in one of the classrooms, the children requested songs by name: Big Hearts, The Bus, Wyoming, etc. I thought I’d have some fun with a couple of the songs and keep things interactive.
Big Hearts for example, I told the kids that in my song, I chose to compare a big heart to a full moon, the Northern Lights, freight trains, etc. When I turned and asked them what other things are big like hearts, they replied; Elephants, Dinosaurs, Blue Wales, Giraffes, Wolves of Wolves and of course, the Universe. I believe they enjoyed their new version better than the original…
In another session, I had the children re-write The Bus with me. In a mad-lib style, I asked them to give me a mode of transportation, an emotion and a piece of scenery. The song went from a simple little ditty about city lights, to a soaring Epic about the blue clouds.
THE BUS: ORIGINAL
On the bus, I’m in love.
On the bus, I’m in love
With the city lights
As they lie there; thin on the horizon.
THE BUS: NORTH PARK ELEMENTARY VERSION
On an airplane, I am happy.
On an airplane, I am happy
And staring out at the clouds
Because they are blue.
Lastly, by show of hands, I opened the floor to questions– to name a few, I was asked: Do you have any serious songs? What’s the lowest note you’ve ever played? What is the highest note you’ve ever played? Do you have any love songs?