Introduction
“Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gum Tree” is a popular children’s song in Australia. It is often taught in schools and is a favorite among children for its catchy tune and amusing lyrics. The song is believed to have originated in the early 1900s and has since become a cultural icon in Australia.
The Lyrics
The lyrics to “Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gum Tree” are as follows:
Kookaburra sits in the old gum tree
Merry, merry king of the bush is he
Laugh, Kookaburra, laugh, Kookaburra
Gay your life must be
Kookaburra sits in the old gum tree
Eating all the gumdrops he can see
Stop, Kookaburra, stop, Kookaburra
Leave some there for me
The song is usually sung in a round, with one group of children starting the first verse and another group joining in with the second verse.
The Meaning
The song is about the Kookaburra, a bird native to Australia. The Kookaburra is known for its distinctive call, which sounds like laughter. The lyrics describe the Kookaburra sitting in a gum tree, eating gumdrops and laughing merrily. The song is meant to be lighthearted and fun, and is often used as a way to teach children about Australian wildlife.
The History
The origins of the song are unclear, but it is believed to have been written in the early 1900s. The first recorded version of the song was published in 1934 by Marion Sinclair, an Australian music teacher. The song quickly became popular in Australia and was soon being taught in schools across the country.
In 2009, a controversy arose when it was discovered that the copyright to the song was still owned by the Girl Guides Association of Victoria, despite the fact that it had been widely used for decades. The association eventually agreed to waive its copyright and allow the song to be used freely.
The Kookaburra
The Kookaburra is a bird native to Australia and New Guinea. It is known for its distinctive call, which sounds like laughter. The bird is a member of the kingfisher family and is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and urban parks.
The Gum Tree
The gum tree, also known as the eucalyptus tree, is a tree native to Australia. It is known for its aromatic leaves and its ability to survive in arid and drought-prone environments. The gum tree is an important part of Australian culture and is often used in art and literature.
Teaching the Song
“Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gum Tree” is often taught in schools in Australia and is a popular song for children’s parties and events. The song is easy to learn and is a good way to teach children about Australian wildlife and culture. Teachers often use the song as a way to introduce children to music and singing.
Conclusion
“Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gum Tree” is a beloved children’s song in Australia. The catchy tune and amusing lyrics have made it a cultural icon in the country, and it is often taught in schools and sung at parties and events. The song’s lighthearted nature and emphasis on Australian wildlife make it a great way to introduce children to music and singing.
