Not sure how to play from the notes below? Check out our TUTORIAL
About song and easy letter notes
Discover the joy of playing one of the most enchanting American melodies, “Simple Gifts,” through an innovative approach using letter notation. This traditional Shaker tune, composed by Elder Joseph Brackett in 1848, has woven its way through American music history, celebrated for its humble melody and heartfelt lyrics that speak to the virtue of simplicity and gratitude in life. Whether you’re delving into the piano with our piano book for beginners or introducing a young learner to the keys with our piano book for kids, “Simple Gifts” offers an accessible and deeply rewarding musical experience. “Simple Gifts” is not just a song; it’s a journey back to 19th-century America, capturing the essence of Shaker values. Its lyrics, “’Tis the gift to be simple, ’tis the gift to be free,” resonate as much today as they did over a century ago, making it a timeless piece for learners of all ages. The song’s adaptability across various genres, from classical to folk and even pop, illustrates its universal appeal. Playing “Simple Gifts” with our easy piano songbook, which utilizes keyboard stickers and letter notes, provides beginners with an immediate sense of accomplishment. Incorporating this tune into your piano practice book or using it as part of your piano lessons for beginners can enrich the learning experience by connecting students with a piece of musical heritage. Beyond its historical significance, “Simple Gifts” serves as an excellent exercise in melody and emotion, making it a must-have in any keyboard for beginners book or keyboard music book for beginners.
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.
