A Holiday Fiesta!: 2-Part Choral Octavo
(A Partner Song with "Dale, Dale, Dale")
Traditional Mexican Folk Song / arr., with new words and music, by Mary Donnelly and George L. O. Strid
Item: 00-PO-0006449
$2.05
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
This festive partner song combines the traditional Mexican folk song "Dale, Dale, Dale" with an original tune all about swinging at the piñata. What a great choice for the holidays, or celebrations of any kind! With a choice of English or Spanish words and perfectly paired independent melodies, it's sure to be a hit for singers taking their first cracks at harmony.
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
8
SKU:
00-PO-0006449
More about this title
About the Arranger: Mary Donnelly
Mary Donnelly spent thirty years teaching general music and choir in Nevada schools, where she developed a deep understanding of what engages young singers. Her background includes a degree in English and French from the University of Nevada, Reno, followed by graduate work in Education at Lesley College in Massachusetts, with focus on arts integration across the curriculum. She holds memberships in ACDA, NEA, and ASCAP.
In 1986, Donnelly met George L. O. Strid while team-teaching a sixth grade music class. Their principal challenged them to create a musical for Reading Week, launching a partnership that has produced over two hundred songs and twenty-five musicals. Together, they have become known for writing accessible, joyful pieces that work for elementary and middle school singers.
Why we love this
This pairing of "Dale, Dale, Dale" with an original companion melody teaches genuine two-part singing without requiring students to learn difficult new material alongside unfamiliar harmony concepts. The choice of English or Spanish text makes it equally strong for diverse classroom communities, and the cultural authenticity combined with the playful piñata theme creates real joy in rehearsal.
What to expect
Festive and bright, with the warmth of a traditional folk melody layered against a spirited new tune that captures the excitement of celebration. The piece has an almost call-and-response quality that feels intimate and playful, inviting singers to listen to each other while delivering a performance that radiates joy.
Who it's for
This octavo works beautifully for developing singers in grades 4-6 who are ready to experience real two-part harmony for the first time. It serves upper elementary through early middle school choirs, community youth choirs, and festival showcases where accessible yet musically solid repertoire is needed.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the two independent melodies equally; neither voice should disappear behind the other. In early rehearsals, isolate each part separately so singers fully own their melodic line before combining.
- Use the recorded accompaniment during rehearsals to anchor pitch and tempo while students internalize their parts, then gradually shift to a cappella or piano-only support as confidence builds.
- Bring out the rhythmic playfulness of the piñata theme. Subtle articulation and slight separation between phrases will highlight the partner song's energy without sacrificing blend.
How to use it
Program this during holiday concerts, multicultural celebrations, or spring festivals where cultural traditions deserve genuine representation. It also makes an excellent choice early in the season when you're introducing two-part singing, since the melodic simplicity and cultural familiarity allow singers to focus on independence and blend rather than note-reading.
Skills your students will build
- Singing independent melodies in a two-part texture
- Listening and blending while maintaining a distinct melodic line
- Reading and performing in English and Spanish
- Understanding partner song form and structure
- Performing folk music with cultural awareness