Easy Classic Songs On the Thumb Piano

These songs that I have chosen are in my opinion easy to play and learn with a little practice. They are all suitable for a beginner on the thumb piano or kalimba. Before you can play any song you must ensure that your instrument is in tune, and is ready to go. Assuming that it is all good, let's go ahead and start learning those tabs!

1. Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

Twinkle twinkle little star is a popular nursery rhyme that was written by an English author called Jane Taylor in 1806. The original rhyme was actually called ‘the star’ and since its first publication, it has changed quite significantly. Below is a short preview of the notes.

C C G G A A G
F F E E D D C

2. Mary Had a Little Lamb

Mary had a little lamb is another common kids’ nursery rhyme by composer Lowell Martin. The song is based on a real-life incident involving Mary Elizabeth Sawyer. She was born in 1806 on a farm in Scotland and she had a pet lamb that she absolutely loved. Below is a short preview of the notes.

E D C D E E E      

D D D E E E

3. Incy Wincy Spider 

Incy wincy spider is a popular modern nursery rhyme, according to various internet sources it started off as a song for adults that was called Camp and Camino’ with the main words being ‘blooming, bloody instead of ‘Itsy Bitsy’. The song itself was first published in 1920 and variations of the lyrics are still being used today in various regions. The idea of the song is very positive and it aims to inspire children to never give up. For example, when the rain brings you down, keep going because the sun will come out and you can try again. Below is a short preview of the notes.

G C C C D E E°

E D C D E C

4. Old MacDonald Had a Farm

Old MacDonald had A farm is a popular nursery rhyme and animal song for children. It was recorded in the united states. Its first publication was approximately 1917. Below is a short preview of the notes.

C C C G A A G

E E D D C

5. Jingle Bells

Jingle Bells is a very well known song that was originally written by James Lord Pierpont. The song was inspired by the open sleigh cart-horse races during 1857. It has been since associated with the season of Christmas due to 'Santa and his sleigh', however, that is not how the songwriter originally intended. Below is a short preview of the notes.

E E E E E E E G C D E

F F F F F E E E E

6. Frère Jacques

Frère Jacques is a very well known kid's French nursery rhyme, it was originally written by Rameau. The English lyrics translate to: Are you sleeping? Are you sleeping? Brother John, brother john. The morning bells are ringing. The morning bells are ringing. Ding, dang, dong. Ding, dang, dong. Below is a short preview of the notes.

C D E C C D E C

E F G E F G

7. Silent Night

Get the full playable kalimba tab here.

9. This Old Man

This Old Man is a traditional English nursery rhyme known for its repetitive structure and catchy tune. The simple, looping melody makes it easy to memorise and enjoyable to play. It’s often used as an early learning song for children and beginners. Below is a short preview of the notes.

Get the full playable kalimba tab here.

10. Fur Elise

Für Elise is a famous classical piece written by Ludwig van Beethoven in the early 1800s. It is one of the most recognisable piano melodies ever composed and is often one of the first classical pieces students learn. While the full version is advanced, simplified arrangements make it accessible for beginners. Below is a short preview of the notes.

Get the full playable kalimba tab here.

The Only Kalimba Songbook You'll Ever Need

The fastest way to build confidence and technique is by playing real music. The Kalimba Songbook is a focused collection of 80 expertly arranged tabs, designed specifically for beginners and developing musicians who want to bypass the long theory sections and get straight into making music. This songbook removes frustration by giving you clean, easy-to-read tablature that guides you. This resource is your direct path to unlocking a wide range of popular tunes.

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