Hey Fiddle Fiddle! can be performed at a variety of tempos and still be effective in performance. Ultimately, strive for a tempo that feels good in 2 - but it is certainly appropriate to work in a fast 4, especially for younger students. Players should pay close attention to accents because they are crucial to the style of the work and will really make the music come alive.
This fun-spirited fiddle tune begins with a unison statement of the theme, then gradually expands in harmony until the entire ensemble is into the groove. While the theme develops, the initial pizzicato in the low strings serves as the rhythm section of the group. Other members of the orchestra take over this rhythm section, including violas (and optional violin 3), stomping and clapping as the hoedown begins to roar. As is characteristic of much fiddle music, Hey Fiddle Fiddle! is based mostly on open 4ths and 5ths. These intervals become the focus of the piece at measure 49, where violins and violas trade phrases back and forth with low strings. One final build brings the tune back for a stirring conclusion.