Recently, I received from a message from Katy, a Dancer's Music Resource reader. She said, I am writing to see if you have any equally awesome suggestions for lyrical songs for younger dancers (9-12ish). I love giving them pieces they can relate to, songs about childhood, friendships, etc... I just can't (and wouldn't want to) ask them to relate to songs about heartbreak or sadness. Do you have any song suggestions for light, happy, lyrical, appropriate for younger children? I can completely relate. When I choreograph for younger dancers, I can't bring myself to choose songs that are sad, angry, angsty, or talk about adult problems. Those kinds of songs are very popular when it comes to lyrical dance. But when kids are young, they don't need that. I agree with Katy, let's give these kids songs they can relate to. Even more, let's give them songs that inspire, help and uplift them in a world that can easily drag you down. I mean honestly, it doesn't matter what age you are - we could all use a little hope and positivity right now, couldn't we? So, here are a few songs that I think would be appropriate for lyrical or contemporary choreography for dancers of any age. 1. If Then by General Ghost This song is about trying new things and not being afraid of failure. I've seen a lot about the importance of failure going around on social media lately in articles, videos, etc. and I agree that it's an important topic. We can't let the fear of failure keep us from reaching our full potential. Failure can teach us a lot if we pick ourselves back up, learn from our mistakes, and keep moving forward. I used this song a couple years ago for a junior division contemporary piece and I love the energy of it. 2. Be Still by the Killers Ok, so I've featured this song before....but it's just so perfect I had to do it again. This past year, I used this song for choreography I did for a junior competition team. Before teaching them the choreography, I discussed the meaning of the piece with them; It's about rising up and staying true to yourself no matter what life brings us. Later, I found out that one of the girls on the team had a serious health condition, needed surgery, and wasn't able to compete. The team dedicated this piece to her. Though I was heartbroken because of what this girl and her team had to go through, I was so happy that my piece was able to inspire these young girls and motivate them to keep going. Last I heard, the young dancer was recovering and excited to dance again. 3. Lifted Away by Joseph Alright, so obviously this is a live video performance, but you can find the recorded version of this song for free on Noisetrade. I've used this song for choreography as well and loved it. It's about not worrying and breaking free from the things that keep you down. These ladies have beautiful harmony. I hope you love it as much as I do. 4. We're Going to be Friends (cover) by Jack Johnson If you're looking for the perfect sweet & innocent friendship song for kids, here you go. This song is originally by the White Stripes. I actually really love the original, but I've found that many dance teachers prefer the Jack Johnson version for their young classes, so that's the one I went with... But they're both great, take your pick. 5. Diggin in the Sand by Josh Rouse This song is just cute, lighthearted and upbeat. How adorable would a beach themed dance be? 6. The Weight of Living Pt. 1 by Bastille Similarly to "Lifted Away," this song is about letting go of things that bring you down in life. So many of these songs are great for choreography because dancers can relate them to the different challenges that they face individually whether that's depression, illness, family problems, or anything else. 7. Let it Be by the Beatles This a classic, not much needs to be said here.... One of my all time favorite songs full of hope. 8.Next to Me by Sleeping at Last I LOVE this song. My husband and I are childhood friends and this song played during our wedding slideshow. (Awwwww. I know, right?) Anyway, it's kind of a love song...Kind of. But it is also about the innocence of youth. It would be so precious for a group of young dancers. 9. Little Balloon by Jenny and Tyler This is such a sweet song. And how cute would it be to use balloons in your choreography? 10. Hang On by Guster I'm going to finish this list with another general, hopeful statement, "Just hang on." This song is mellow, but meaningful with just enough dynamic to make a beautiful piece.
Well, what do you think? Do you have any other songs you've loved using for younger dancers? Please share! (And Katy, I hope that helped!) Happy choreographing!
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