This is a welcome song from Uganda, a country in East Africa. Can you locate Uganda on a map or globe? As you listen to the song, keep the beat by stepping with your feet.
Echo-sing the melody while adding motions.
I'm so excited, on the top of the mountain. . Roll hands up from low to high, then burst from high to low.
I feel the joy down in my heart. . Hold both hands to heart.
That is why I'm singing and dancing. . Swing marching-style arms.
You are welcome, we love you our friend. Reach both hands out, then both hands to heart. (twice)
Sing the melody with the recording, using the motions. This would be a great song to sing multiple times to give everyone a chance to sing the solo, if interested!
As the song becomes more confident, give volunteers the opportunity to sing the welcoming solo: My name is (Sarah) and I'm so excited. I feel the joy down in my heart. That is why I'm singing and dancing.
At the next rehearsal, echo-sing the Part 2 (harmony) of the song: Welcome friend! Welcome friend, I feel the joy down in my heart! That is why I am dancing. You are welcome, we love you our friend. (twice)
Sing the harmony with the recording. Use the motions, as much as possible.
Divide into two groups to sing melody (Part 1) and harmony (Part 2). Choose volunteers for the solo parts. Practice until comfortable, first without the recording, then with the recording.
Switch parts and sing in harmony again.
Perform! This would be a great song to sing in the beginning of a school year, or to welcome new students, staff or families to school. Its energetic rhythm and positive words sends a welcoming message to all! If desired, a rhythmic ostinato could be added on the djembe and a melodic ostinato could be added on the Soprano recorder. The steady beat could be added with a shekere.
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