Want to play piano without reading sheet music? Using letter notes (like C, D, E) is the easiest way to start! This guide includes:
✔ 5 super simple songs (with letter notes + video tutorials)
✔ How to find more letter-note songs (free resources)
✔ Pro tips for beginners (hand position, pacing, and more)
Let’s jump in—you’ll be playing your first song by the end!
Table of Contents
1. Why Learn with Letter Notes?
- No music theory needed – Just match letters to piano keys.
- Instant gratification – Play recognizable tunes fast.
- Builds confidence – Great for kids & absolute beginners.
📌 Note: Letters correspond to white keys (e.g., “C” is the white key left of any two black keys).
2. 5 Easy Songs with Letter Notes
1. “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star”
Letters:
C C G G A A G | F F E E D D C
How to Play:
- Right hand only (use thumb on C).
- Go slow—each letter is one note.
2. “Happy Birthday”
Letters:
D D E D G F# | D D E D A G
Tip: F# is the black key right of F.
3. “Jingle Bells” (Chorus)
Letters:
E E E | E E E | E G C D E
Fun fact: This works year-round—not just Christmas!
4. “Mary Had a Little Lamb”
Letters:
E D C D E E E | D D D | E G G
Easiest one to start with!
5. “Let It Go” (Disney’s Frozen)
Letters (first line):
E E E E E E E | G C D E
Bonus: Impress kids with this one!
3. Where to Find More Letter-Note Songs
- PianoLetters.net – Huge library of pop/classical songs.
- YouTube – Search “[Song name] + letter notes”.
- Mobile Apps – Simply Piano, Flowkey (beginner modes).
4. Beginner Tips for Faster Progress
🎹 Label your keys – Use stickers or a marker (temporary!).
👐 Hand position – Curve fingers like holding a ball.
🐢 Slow down – Speed comes later!
🎮 Try games – Apps like Piano Marvel make learning fun.
5. Free Printable Letter Guide
📥 Download our piano key labels + more songs → Get PDF
Final Thought
Letter notes are the fastest gateway into piano. Once you’re hooked, you can dive into sheet music later!
Challenge: Try playing “Happy Birthday” for a friend this week!