Empty Chairs At Empty Tables

by Claude-Michel Schönberg

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Lyrics

There’s a grief that can’t be spo ken

there’s a pain goes on and (C)on.

Emp ty chairs at emp ty (Dm)ta bles

now my (E)friends are dead and (Am)gone.

From the (C7)ta ble

in the (F)cor ner

they could (Cm)see a (F9)world re (Bb)born.

And they (G9)rose with (G7)voic es (C)ring ing,

I can (Bb)hear

them (A)now.

The ve ry (Dm)words that (Dm)they had (Bb)sung

be (Gm)came their last com (G9)mu nion

on the lone ly bar ri (Am)cade

at (Am9)dawn.

Phan tom fac es at the win dow.

Phan tom shad ows on the (C)floor.

Emp ty chairs at emp ty (Dm)ta bles

where my (E)friends will meet no (Am)more.

Oh my friends, my friends, don’t ask me

what your sac ri fice was (C)for.

Emp ty chairs at emp ty (Dm)ta bles,

where my (E)friends will sing no (Am)more.

Empty Chairs At Empty Tables by Claude-Michel Schönberg — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Empty Chairs At Empty Tables” by Claude-Michel Schönberg 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 88 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 "Empty Chairs At Empty Tables" 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 "Empty Chairs At Empty Tables"?
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 "Empty Chairs At Empty Tables" use?
Just 14 chords: A, Am, Am9, Bb, C, C7, Cm, Dm, +6 more. Take it one section at a time.
What other Claude-Michel Schönberg songs work for kids?
Try "A Little Fall Of Rain", "At The End Of The Day from Les Misérables", "Bring Him Home". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.