But Not For Me

by George Gershwin

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Lyrics

They’re writ ing (Cmaj7)songs of (F)love, but (G)not for (Cmaj7)me.

A (G7)luck y (D9)star’s a (F)bove, but (G)not for (C7)me.

With love to (F)lead the (Dm7)way I’ve found more (Em)clouds of (Am)gray than an y (Dm7)Rus sian play could guar an (Ddim)tee.

I was a (Cmaj7)fool to (F)fall and (G)get that (Cmaj7)way.

Heigh (G7)ho!

a (D9)las!

and (F)al so, (G)lack a (C7)day!

Al though I (F)can’t dis (Dm7)miss the mem ’ry (C)of his (E7)kiss, I (F)guess he’s (D9)not

(G7)for

(C)me.

He’s (G7)knock ing (Cmaj7)on a (F)door, but (G)not for (Cmaj7)me.

He’ll (G7)plan a (D9)two by (F)four, but (G)not for (C7)me.

I know that (F)love’s a (Dm7)game; I’m puz zled, (Em)just the (Am)same.

Was I the (Dm7)moth er flame?

I’m all at (Ddim)sea.

It all be (Cmaj7)gan to (F)sell, but (G)what an (Cmaj7)end!

This (G7)is the (D9)time a (F)fel ler (G)needs a (C7)friend.

When ev ’ry (F)hap py (Dm7)plot ends with the (C)mar riage (E7)knot, and (F)there’s no (D9)knot

(G7)for

(C)me.

He’s (G7)knock ing (Cmaj13)me.

But Not For Me by George Gershwin — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “But Not For Me” by George Gershwin in our color-coded kid songbook view — every note is colored by pitch (red C, orange D, yellow E, green F, blue G, purple A, pink B) and the lyrics sit directly under each note, so children can sing along while they play. The song is in the key of C at 110 BPM, a slightly more challenging arrangement — practice each phrase slowly first.

Tips for parents & teachers

  • Start at 50% tempo using the BPM control. Speed up only when your child can play through without stopping.
  • Turn on the metronome from the top bar to build steady rhythm.
  • Use the segmented OFF / C / 1 button to toggle note labels on the staff and keys — kids learn note names faster with letters showing.
  • Tap a measure number on the timeline to jump to a specific section for repeat practice.

Frequently asked questions

Is "But Not For Me" good for a child learning piano?
Yes — this color-coded arrangement is designed for ages 4-12. Each note is colored by pitch so kids match colors to keys, no music reading required. Lyrics sit under every note for sing-along play.
What age can start with "But Not For Me"?
Children as young as 4 can follow the color-coded notes. By age 6-7 most kids can play through the song themselves with light guidance. Parent help is recommended for the first few sessions.
Do we need a piano teacher to use this?
No — the color-coded format is designed to be self-explanatory. Parents with no music background can supervise. Teachers can also use it as an introductory lesson tool.
Can we print the sheet music?
Yes — tap "Download Sheet Music" above for a free printable PDF with the same color-coded notes that appear on screen.