Girl Scouts have been an iconic part of American culture for over 100 years. Founded in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low, the organization aims to build girls of courage, confidence, and character. One of the most beloved Girl Scout traditions is singing – whether it’s by the campfire, in the meeting hall, or on the go. But do Girl Scouts still make music in 2023?
The importance of music in Girl Scouts
Music has been integral to Girl Scouts from the very beginning. The first Girl Scout handbook in 1913 included songs, and by 1915 there was an official Girl Scout songbook. In the early decades, popular tunes were set to new lyrics about Scouting themes like teamwork, being prepared, appreciating nature, and sisterhood.
Singing together serves many purposes for Girl Scouts. It builds camaraderie and reinforces key values. It’s a way to energize gatherings or pass time during activities. Music empowers self-expression and performance. And songs become fond memories that Scouts carry through life.
So while programs and practices have evolved with the times, music remains woven into the fabric of Girl Scouts. Let’s look at how troops today carry on the tradition of musical making.
Music at Girl Scout gatherings
One thing that hasn’t changed over the past century is Girls Scouts delighting in singing together. Whether current hits or classic camp songs, music brings joy and solidarity to Girl Scout get-togethers.
Troops frequently sing at meetings, camping trips, ceremonies, parties, fundraisers, service projects, and other events. Singing games and rhymes are common activities for younger Daisy and Brownie Scouts. Older girls may hold talent shows at camp, form musical groups, or embed songs into ceremonies.
Girl Scouts of all ages enjoy favorites like:
- “Make New Friends”
- “The Girl Scout Smile Song”
- “S’Mores”
- “Boom Chicka Boom”
- “The Girl Scout Hiking Song”
- “Girl Scouts Together”
- “All Girl Scouts Together”
Classics songs get passed down through generations and create nostalgia for alums. But current hits also find their way into the Girl Scout repertoire, keeping music fun and fresh.
Music badges and activities
Girl Scouts who want to grow their musical skills can work toward a Musician badge or Take Action in Music journey. Depending on age level, they may:
- Learn to read music notation
- Pick up an instrument like guitar or ukulele
- Experiment with songwriting
- Explore musical genres and culture
- Start a band or ensemble
- Produce their own music video or podcast
- Organize a concert or open mic event
Younger Scouts tap into music through playful activities. Daisies can drum out rhythms using buckets or pots and pans. Brownies might invent new lyrics for familiar tunes. Juniors may craft basic instruments like kazoos or rain sticks. And Cadettes could analyze how tempo, rhythm and lyrics convey meaning.
In addition to structured badge work, music naturally makes its way into various Girl Scout activities. They may sing by the campfire, use songs to energize a sports day, or incorporate music into theatrical performances.
Campfire singalongs
One of the most iconic Girl Scout experiences is sitting around a campfire, roasting s’mores, and singing with friends. Sleepaway camps provide perfect settings for this time-honored tradition.
There’s something special about the campfire singalong. Girls let loose and get silly. Impromptu a cappella harmonizing brings goosebumps. Lifelong memories are made recalling lyrics and melodies.
Popular campfire songs include:
- “Found a Peanut”
- “Princess Pat”
- “John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt”
- “Hermie the Worm”
- “Baby Shark” (for younger girls)
- “The Campfire Song”
Girls also love acting out tunes with gestures or motions. And no campfire is complete without an inspirational round of “Taps” and “Day is Done” to close out the night.
The benefits of music-making
Why is music so integral to Girl Scouting? What do girls gain from these musical experiences?
First, music-making activities are fun! Singing energizes girls and brings smiles to their faces. Music provides a pleasurable way to pass time while keeping spirits high.
Additionally, research shows musical engagement has great benefits for youth development. Making music builds self-confidence and creativity. Songs can teach resilience, build community, and give girls a means to process emotions. Performance skills boost poise and public speaking ability.
On a practical level, musical skills are valuable in school and life. Understanding rhythm, melody, and composition gives girls an edge in music class. Learning to read notes or play an instrument trains the brain. And participating in band or glee club gives girls peer bonding time.
In short, music allows Girl Scouts to creatively express themselves, connect with others, and explore their passions. Lifelong music-makers often trace their interest back to formative experiences in Girl Scouts.
Girl Scouts’ musical legacy
While Girl Scouts have modernized with the times, music remains central more than 100 years later. Songs both old and new fill gatherings with merriment andmeaning.
Girl Scout songs also leave a legacy. cherished in Girl Scout memories, preserved in historical songbooks, and kept alive through the oral tradition.
Looking ahead, music will continue brightening Girl Scouts’ lives. Singing games will energize young girls. Teens will bond jamming around a campfire. Songs will commemorate ceremonies and achievements.
And each generation of Girl Scouts will carry forward this musical heritage by lifting their voices in song.
Conclusion
Music has resonated through Girl Scouts for over a century, and remains a vibrant element today. Songs both classic and current liven gatherings, spark creativity, and build sisterhood. Music badges encourage Scouts to explore instruments, songwriting, and performance. Campfire singalongs create cherished memories. And all along the way, music enhances activities while allowing girls’ self-expression. While programs modernize, music stays central to the Girl Scout experience – keeping spirits high, traditions alive, and girls joyfully singing for generations to come.