Composed By: Michael Gelbart (or Samuel Goldfarb? see article)

Arranger Matthew (Mati) Lazar (and Teyku)

sample page 1, page 2, page 3

Purchase sheet music at Transcontinental

purchase CD here

Voicing: SATB

Keyword rock and roll, doo-wop

Event/Holiday: Chanukah

Language: English

Difficulty: moderate

Country: America

Solos: tenor

Instruments: piano (optional drum kit, bass)

Lyrics: Samuel Goldfarb or Samuel Grossman (see article)

Year arranged/Published: 1989 (original song composed in 1927)

Timing: 3:00

Tempo: moderate

First Line: I have a little dreydl, I made it out of clay,

description: Originally written in Yiddish, Michael Gelbart’s “I Have a Little Dreydel” has proven to be a popular children’s song for Chanukah. In English translation it has captivated several generations of American children, as well. Utilizing the styles of 1950s rock-’n’-roll, this lighthearted arrangement conveys the joyous aura of the Festival of Lights. After a deceptively simple a cappella introduction by the choir, the piano boldly enters in 12/8 rhythms. The soloist carries the melody for the most part, while the chorus enjoys the sounds of “doo-wop.”