I Hear Music Everywhere

by Teresa Jennings/arr. Paul Jennings

Music is in the ear of the beholder. Or so this song suggests. To some ears, a doorbell, a phone, a chicken, or a train whistle might be just as musical as the latest hit on the radio.

"I Hear Music Everywhere" is another tune that was written for the musical revue We're Making Music! As with other tunes in the revue, it is also non-specific enough to be used outside of the revue successfully. It's a delightful and lighthearted swing tune that is catchy and sung entirely in unison. Plus, the melody is never any more rhythmically difficult than quarter notes. That way your students can focus on what's really fun about the tune - the sound effects!

Our singers had a great time auditioning for each of the effects. It was a hoot! You'd be amazed how many interpretations you might get of something seemingly simple. Like a goose. Or a chain saw. We imagine you will find that kids get such a kick out of this, that there will be naturally occurring humor. Go with it. Laughter is music, too.

The sound effects that we have indicated on the music are merely suggestions. We encourage your students to come up with their own ideas for effects. You should probably still have them demonstrate ahead of time, lest you have any rude or impolite sounds show up. In fact, you might want to have that rule up front: keep it clean.

The recording for this tune is also very nice. It features a tasteful jazz ensemble playing the swinging background figures. During the second time at measure 5, the brass players go into mutes to keep it subtle under the oh-so-fun sound effect lyrics.

Text is taken from Music K-8 magazine.