Funny Bunny

by Teresa Jennings

Who says you can have too many bunny songs? Year after year, our bunny songs continue to prove themselves as some of our most popular songs. Go figure. Bunnies must be a hot topic, especially for your youngest singers. Mind you, we think that we make them especially appealing with cute graphics, fun movement ideas, and upbeat styles. And as you have probably guessed, this year's bunny contribution is no different.

This time, our star is featured in a hoppin' rock 'n' roll setting. His silliness is the focus as he rides buffaloes and wears designer clothes, among other things. Your students will get a kick out of his antics as they learn and sing the very simple and repetitious lyrics. The song is mostly unison, but you can split your singers up for the optional call and response section at measure 17. At this same point, you can add claps on beats 2 and 4 as indicated on the music, using all or some of your performers.

There is a built-in movement section at bar 29 during the drum solo. While your singers are chanting "Ha!" they can also either be moving freely, moving in a choreographed fashion (simple is always good), or spotlighting a bunny dancer or two. Remember that he (or she) is supposed to be "funny," so just about anything goes!

While we recommend using our recording for the authentic rock 'n' roll guitar, bass, drums, piano and organ, we think your students will particularly enjoy it for our very own Elvis impersonator. He answers each phrase of the verse in song and ends the tune with "Thank you very much." Let one of your young impersonators ham it up by mouthing these lines.

If you have a decent rhythm section at your school, this easy song is definitely playable live, too. The chord changes are basic and should be no problem for young guitarists, bassists and pianists. And what rock drummer wouldn't love a chance to show off on the drum solo? (Remember "Wipe Out"? This drum part has a similar sixteenth note pattern.)

Text is taken from Music K-8 magazine.