Not sure how to play from the notes below? Check out our TUTORIAL
“Drunken Sailor” is a sea shanty that’s bounced through the echoes of maritime history, capturing the imagination of sailors and landlubbers alike for centuries. Though its exact origins are as murky as the ocean depths, it’s believed to have been sung aboard ships as early as the 1830s. This shanty, characterized by its catchy melody and repetitive chorus, is a work song that was used to synchronize tasks among sailors. The lyrics, “What shall we do with a drunken sailor, early in the morning?” have sparked countless variations, each adding to the song’s rich tapestry of folklore and maritime culture. Its lively beat and easy-to-learn structure make it a perfect first song for those delving into the world of music through our innovative approach with letter notes, keyboard stickers, and a comprehensive piano book for beginners.
Not just a piece for kids, our piano learning book for adults also features “Drunken Sailor,” making it accessible for budding musicians of any age. The song is not only an excellent way to dive into learning to play the piano, but it also opens a window into the vibrant world of seafaring life and its musical heritage. With our easy piano songbook, including letter notes sheet music and piano exercises for beginners, anyone can start playing this iconic tune in no time. The keyboard songbook for beginners we’ve crafted ensures that every student can feel the thrill of playing a piece of history from their very first try. Whether it’s through the cultural significance of the song, its universally engaging melody, or the fascinating tales of sailors’ lives at sea, “Drunken Sailor” serves as a bridge connecting learners not only to music but to a storied past that still resonates in today’s world.
Some of the notes on our website contain the full version of the song, and some are excerpts, or for example the very beginning, chorus or verse, etc. Full versions of all the notes can be found in our books and e-books: SHOP.
