Happy birthday, Irving

Posted on May 12, 2021 by Jennie

My preschoolers are singing this song as we get ready for a Memorial Day Remembrance later this month. Thank you, Irving Berlin.

bluebird of bitterness

In honor of the birthday of Irving Berlin, here is one of his greatest hits, sung by Kings Return.

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About Jennie

I have been teaching preschool for over thirty years. This is my passion. I believe that children have a voice, and that is the catalyst to enhance or even change the learning experience. Emergent curriculum opens young minds. It's the little things that happen in the classroom that are most important and exciting. That's what I write about. I am highlighted in the the new edition of Jim Trelease's bestselling book, "The Read-Aloud Handbook" because of my reading to children. My class has designed quilts that hang as permanent displays at both the National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia, and the Fisher House at the Boston VA Hospital.
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30 Responses to Happy birthday, Irving

  1. Jacqui Murray says:
    May 12, 2021 at 9:45 am

    How wonderful for the kids. This is beasutiful, Jennie.

    Reply
  2. Filarance says:
    May 12, 2021 at 9:51 am

    It’s so beautiful.

    Reply
  3. Darlene says:
    May 12, 2021 at 9:58 am

    Such a moving song. I’m sure the children just belt it out!!

    Reply
  4. Annika Perry says:
    May 12, 2021 at 10:08 am

    Jennie, a beautiful a cappella rendition of your anthem! Have a special time rehearsing for Memorial Day.

    Reply
  5. beetleypete says:
    May 12, 2021 at 10:19 am

    Great to hear the kids are being taught the value of the great American songwriters.
    Best wishes, Pete.

    Reply
    • Jennie says:
      May 12, 2021 at 8:54 pm

      Thank you for saying that, Pete. Children need to learn about music and the great songwriters. When I first learned that Irving Berlin really didn’t like our National Anthem, I discovered it wasn’t adopted until ‘32. Really? I immediately called my mother in a huff, and she told me Americans always sang “My County tis of Thee” before we had a National Anthem. The same tune as “God Save the Queen.” Very fitting, I think.

      Reply
  7. GP says:
    May 12, 2021 at 2:26 pm

    Fantastic!
    For Irving….

    Reply
  8. Liz Gauffreau says:
    May 12, 2021 at 7:46 pm

    I remember seeing this acapella stairwell group before somewhere online. They’ve done Irving Berlin proud!

    Reply
  9. petespringerauthor says:
    May 12, 2021 at 7:54 pm

    I know this isn’t the way it is typically done, but I like the acoustics of singing inside a condensed area like a stairwell. I’m sure that your students are having a ball learning this beautiful song.

    Reply
    • Jennie says:
      May 13, 2021 at 7:03 am

      I am never a fan of patriotic songs done in ways that are not traditional, as it feels disrespectful. Yet, this one felt very respectful, and the voices were beautiful. The children love this song. We’re planning a Zoom circus performance for our families, and of course there is always singing the National Anthem at the start (God Bless America for us), so we have twice the reason to sing. 🇺🇸

      Reply
  11. Norah says:
    May 14, 2021 at 2:42 am

    I believe you have a birthday too, Jennie. Happy birthday to you!

    Reply
  12. OIKOS™-Editorial says:
    May 19, 2021 at 6:22 am

    Wonderful Jennie! Thank you for sharing another gem from your work. Have a nice week! Michael

    Reply

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