Polly Wolly Doodle: Choral Instrumental Pak
Arranged by John Leavitt
Item: 35-PK00226213
$30.00
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Description
You will love the humor of the American folksong favorite in this foot-stomping, rafter-raising rendition. Accompany it with bass, fiddle and percussion or the vigorous authentic hoedown-style orchestration. Includes part for solo violin. Duration: ca. 2:30.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00226213
More about this title
About the Arranger: John Leavitt
John Leavitt has built a reputation as an arranger who finds the theatrical core in traditional material. His work spans choral, instrumental, and vocal genres, consistently balancing accessibility with musical substance. Directors turn to Leavitt arrangements when they want pieces that energize both performers and audiences without sacrificing craftsmanship.
Why we love this
Leavitt captures the infectious spirit of this folk standard while giving it real instrumental backbone. The optional hoedown orchestration means you can scale this for your available resources, whether that's a simple bass and fiddle setup or a fuller ensemble sound. It's the kind of piece that generates genuine excitement in the rehearsal room and pays off immediately in performance.
What to expect
Foot-stomping and irrepressible, with the infectious energy of a kitchen jam session that somehow made it onto the concert stage. The arrangement honors the folksong's casual charm while adding just enough musical substance to feel genuinely performed rather than merely nostalgic.
Who it's for
Choirs seeking repertoire that entertains without becoming novelty music, and directors who want an accessible piece that still showcases musicianship. This works equally well for high school, college, and community ensembles looking to program something rooted in American tradition.
How to get the most out of it
- Lock in the rhythmic pocket with your rhythm section first. Once bass and percussion establish the groove, the choir finds its swagger naturally.
- Let the solo violin breathe where the arrangement provides space. This isn't a competitive voice; it's a flavor that highlights the arrangement's color.
- Encourage stylistic buoyancy in the vocal lines. The humor lands when singers commit to the lightness and vernacular character of the folksong rather than over-polishing it.
- Use the optional percussion parts to build momentum through the arrangement. Adding layers as the piece develops creates the rafter-raising effect the score promises.
How to use it
Pair this with other American folk material for a thematic concert block, or use it as a show closer when you want the audience leaving with smiles. The 2:30 duration and accessible idiom make it ideal for pops concerts, family shows, or any program needing strategic lighter moments.
Skills your students will build
- Style and character specific to American folk idioms
- Rhythmic independence between vocal and instrumental parts
- Coordinate ensemble timing across multiple instrumental colors
- Solo line work (violin), balancing with ensemble context