Can this be done with a privet? Do they have just 1 stage of growth, or like elms and maples they can put out several rounds of growth from buds made during initial growth?
I've never done it, but I'd be very surprised if it didn't respond properly. They grow like mad and fuse trunks and branches together if in close proximity. Not sure what your last part means, but in my climate they bud back profusely even on old wood through most of the year.