Not sure how to play from the notes below? Check out our TUTORIAL
About the song and about tablature. You can find tablatures below the description.
Delving into the soulful melodies of the kalimba can be a transformative journey, especially for beginners taking their first steps into the world of music. “Once in Royal David’s City” stands out as not just a song but an experience, waiting to be explored through the tactile, engaging method of number notes, a feature prominently highlighted in our comprehensive kalimba learning book for adults, as well as in our kalimba book for kids. This hymn, with its origins tracing back to the 19th century, was composed by Henry John Gauntlett in 1849, with lyrics penned by Cecil Frances Alexander. The song narrates the humble birth of Jesus in a stable, painting vivid imagery with its poetic verses, making it a poignant piece for reflection and celebration during the Christmas season.
“Once in Royal David’s City” is not just a hymn; it’s a piece of history wrapped in melody, a gateway to understanding the cultural and spiritual fabric of the past. It’s a song that has been woven into the tapestry of Christmas traditions, performed in carol services around the globe, making it a perfect first song for anyone learning to play the kalimba. Our kalimba songbook with number notation is designed to make this journey as accessible as possible, allowing players to dive into the rich emotional depth of the song without needing prior musical knowledge. Whether you’re a child eager to play your first tune or an adult looking to embark on a musical adventure, our easy kalimba songbook opens a world where the soothing tones of “Once in Royal David’s City” can be brought to life through the simple press of a tine, making every note resonate with the warmth and joy of the season.
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.
