From World Music Press

by Paul Kerlee

Morris and Sword Dances for Children

With songs, vigorous leaps, claps, shouts and clashing of sticks or swords, join music educator and morris dancer Paul Kerlee as he chases away the shadows of winter and heralds the seasons in Welcome In The Spring. This is an exhilarating introduction to seasonal ritual dances that long ago grew up in the English countryside and were joyfully carried to America at the turn of the century.

For over twenty years, Paul Kerlee has been an acknowledged pioneer and primary force for bringing English morris and sword dances to children. This collection may be used with children in upper elementary school and higher, or by adults seeking a satisfying entry into the world of morris dance. Sing in the seasons, or accompany your May Day celebrations with truly authentic dances.

The 9" x 12" spiral-bound book includes:

• Copy-OK musical transcriptions and optional Orff instrument settings for 15 clapping, stick, sword, and hanky dances
• Complete dance descriptions for all dances; accessible, authentic arrangements
• Glossary of dance steps, customs and costumes
• A brief history of morris dancing
• How to get started with morris and sword dancing in your school or community
• Hints for teaching each dance

The companion CD(s) includes:

• CD #1 - Lively, full-length performances of all dances by well-known morris musicians (including Leah Barkan, Jody Kruskal, Betsy Blachly and Marnen Laibow-Koser) playing accordion, concertina, pipe and tabor, and fiddle. Suitable for listening appreciation, practice or performance.
• CD #2 - Full-length Orff instrument demos of all dances, suitable for practice or performance.

About the Downloadable OptionThe downloadable version contains all the components the print version would, but in electronic format. Files may be quite large: A high-speed connection is recommended. Questions? Click to open the Download Help page in a new window.

About the Convenience Combo Kit The Convenience Combo Kit includes both the Kit with CD and the Downloadable Kit.