One of the most popular French Christmas carols, with its call to « play oboes, sound the bagpipes ». The tune is a traditional French air, first published in 1862. The original is in G major; here it is moved to C major, so it stays on white keys.
How do you play Air traditionnel · Il est né le divin Enfant on the piano, the easy way?
With one hand and 7 keys: put a finger on key 1, G3, and number the keys the song uses from there. Then press the numbers in order: 1 3 3 5 3 1 3 3 (in letter notes: G C C E C G C C). The whole song lasts about 19 seconds; the lesson on this page shows the next key and waits for you.
How many keys do I need for Air traditionnel · Il est né le divin Enfant?
7 keys, all white keys, played with the right hand: 1 = G, 2 = B, 3 = C, 4 = D, 5 = E, 6 = F, 7 = G.
What are the first notes of Air traditionnel · Il est né le divin Enfant?
In numbers: 1 3 3 5 3 1 3 3. In letter notes: G C C E C G C C.
Is Air traditionnel · Il est né le divin Enfant free to play and share?
Yes. Air traditionnel · Il est né le divin Enfant is in the public domain (Traditional French carol, Il est né, le divin Enfant (words 1862)). This easy arrangement, its number sheet and its MIDI file are free to use and share for learning.
Can I play it without a piano?
Yes: tap the keys on the page on a phone or tablet, or press the numbers 1–7 on a computer keyboard. The lesson waits for the right key and shows the next one.
How long does it take to learn?
The whole song lasts 19 seconds at 100 beats a minute. Most beginners play it through within a few tries; lower the speed with the slider to go slower.