Charade

by Henry Mancini

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Lyrics

When we played our cha rade

we were like chil dren (E7)pos ing,

(Bm7)play ing at (E7)games,

(Bm7)act ing out (E7)names,

(Bm7)guess ing the (E)parts (E7)we (Am)played.

Oh, what a (F)hit we (Am6)made,

(Am)we came on next to (Bm7)clos ing.

(Bm7)Best on the (E7)bill,

(Bm7)lov ers un (E7)til

(Bm7)love left the (E)mas (E7)que (Am)rade.

(Dm7)Fate

seemed to (Cmaj7)pull the (Am)strings.

I turned

(G7)and you were (C)gone,

(Dm7)while

from the (Cmaj7)dark ened (Am)wings the (D9)mu sic box played (Bm7)on.

(Am)Sad lit tle ser e nade,

song of my heart’s com (E7)pos ing.

(Bm7)I hear it (E7)still,

(Bm7)I al ways (E7)will,

(B)best on the (E7#5)bill

(E7)cha (Am)rade.

Charade by Henry Mancini — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Charade” by Henry Mancini 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 A at 136 BPM, a comfortable easy-level arrangement perfect for first-time learners.

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 "Charade" 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 "Charade"?
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.
How many chords does "Charade" use?
Just 13 chords: Am, Am6, Bm7, C, C#dim, Cmaj7, D9, Dm7, +5 more. Take it one section at a time.
What other Henry Mancini songs work for kids?
Try "HOW SOON", "TWO FOR THE ROAD", "DAYS OF WINE AND ROSES". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.