Zum Gali Gali

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

"Zum Gali Gali" is a traditional Hebrew song relating to the formation of the State of Israel, originating sometime around its creation in 1948. The pioneers referred to in the song were the Jewish settlers who built the new Israel. Years ago, this chant was sung by people while working together; the song lends itself well to digging or any other task requiring a steady beat.

MOVEMENT ACTIVITY

Do a simplified hora-style dance.
Suggested steps:

1. Have students stand in a circle, arms linked or holding hands. There will be two steps per measure.
2. On phrase one of section A and C, step in towards the center four steps raising hands gradually
3. On phrase two, step out four steps and lower hands.
4. Repeat for phases 3 & 4
5. On the B section circle to the left stepping on the strong beats
6. Option for upper grades: On the B section, do a grapevine to the left for five steps.
   On beat six, kick right foot. On beat seven, put right foot down. On beat eight, kick left foot.
   Repeat as necessary 

- by Mary Donnelly

Here are English lyrics, but we're not sure the extent to which they are literally a translation of Hebrew lyrics?

Pioneers all work as one
Work as one all pioneers
Pioneers all work as one
Work as one all pioneers

Pioneers all work as one
Work as one all pioneers
Peace shall be for all the world
All the world shall be for peace

From the dawn till setting sun
Every one finds work to be done
From the dawn till night does come
Thera's a task for everyone

Pioneers work hard on the land
Men and women work hand in hand
As they labor all day long,
They lift their voice in song

Let us work, my friends as one
Let us work 'til the task is done

See the mudcat thread below on the song.