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I know it’s going to be a good day when I research the origin of a children’s song and come away with a genuine smile. Today I learned that “The More We Get Together” was originally a drinking song – and the story behind it is heartwarming.
The song was first published in London the 1920s by Irving King, a pen name for the songwriters Jimmy Campbell and Reg Connelly. They wrote lyrics and paired them with the melody of an old tune from Vienna to create the official anthem of the Ancient Order of Froth Blowers – a club for those who enjoyed a good beer.
The group would get together for drinks and to raise money for children’s charities (and sing their official anthem). Their membership eventually swelled to over 700,000, and their combined contributions allowed them to donate beds to hospitals, fund outings for sick children, and help pay medical bills for the needy.
So the next time you hear this corny children’s song, just imagine a rowdy crowd of half-soused (but socially responsible) Londoners singing it. Then be prepared to explain to everyone why you can’t stop grinning.
“The More We Get Together” Playing Tips
“The More We Get Together” is in 3/4 time, so think waltz. Many of the measures are nothing more than three successive quarter notes that will have the characteristic emphasis on the first beat (ONE-two-three, ONE-two-three).
The steadt waltz rhythm is broken up by eighth notes in a few places, but the hook to this tune appears in three places with the repetition of the words “The more we get together”:
Using rhythm syllables, you get this pattern:
TA TA-I ti ti ti TA TA
I bolded the notes that get the emphasis from the 3/4 time (the ONE from the ONE-two-three). Those beats still get the same emphasis even in the more complicated rhythms. They are the driving heartbeat of the song, so don’t let them get lost.
Click the link or the ‘Download’ button below to see the sheet music if your browser doesn’t display the embedded PDF.
Don’t have a low G uke? Not a problem. I’ve included a standard (high G) TAB for this song as well. Find the link at the bottom on the post. Happy picking!
“The More We Get Together” Low G Sheet Music Download
“The More We Get Together” High G Sheet Music Download
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