Of Thee I Sing!: CD Kit (Book & CD)

This collection succeeds because it treats American musical history as a living experience rather than a textbook lesson. Albrecht and Althouse have carefully selected genres and styles that third graders through middle schoolers can genuinely connect with, from the rhythmic drive of ragtime to the emotional depth of spirituals. The 30-minute arc moves with real momentum, and the inclusion of staging suggestions means you're getting a performance-ready musical, not just a song collection.

A tour through America's musical soul, moving from the spiritual and introspective to the energetic and celebratory. The journey feels authentic because each style is presented with respect for its origins, yet the overall pacing keeps everything fresh and alive. Students experience the variety of American voices rather than studying them from a distance.

Elementary and middle school choirs looking for a substantial program that covers American music history without talking down to students. Teachers who want a musical that works equally well as a standalone performance or woven into a larger concert season. Directors seeking repertoire that balances educational value with genuine entertainment appeal.

• Study the recorded accompaniment before rehearsals begin so you can identify which sections might need extra attention for accuracy or blend.
• Explore the staging suggestions early in your rehearsal process; they're written to enhance the music naturally rather than complicate it.
• Build in time to discuss the historical context of each musical style with your students; this investment pays off in their commitment and authenticity.
• Use the reproducible student pages strategically to reinforce notation and lyrics rather than distributing everything at once.

This works beautifully as a standalone spring or early summer concert celebrating American heritage, particularly around July 4th or Constitution Day programming. It also functions as a thematic spine for a larger concert, where other patriotic or folk-based selections can branch out from its core repertoire. Consider pairing it with instrumental arrangements from the same styles to create an interdisciplinary experience with your band program.

• Understanding and performing multiple American musical styles and genres
• Reading and interpreting period-appropriate rhythmic patterns (swing, ragtime, spirituals)
• Blending vocal tone across changing harmonic contexts and tempos
• Historical listening and cultural context for American music
• Stage presence and movement integrated with singing
• Ensemble cohesion across extended musical narratives