Family Tree

by Dave Barnes

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Lyrics

The (G)fam ’ly (C)car;

we (D)bare ly (G)fit.

and Christ mas (D)time ta

at had come a (G)gain.

And Bun dled (D)up ing

to fight the (Em)freeze,

(C)pick ing out the (D)fam ’ly (G)tree.

We’d (G)dec o (C)rate

with (D)clum sy (G)hands,

but hope that (D)San ta

at the comes a (G)gain.

We’ll in the (D)morn ing

with wake to (Em)see

(C)gifts be neath the (D)fam ’ly (G)tree.

We’d (G)dec o (G)tree.

And I (D)don’t know where I’m (G)go (C)ing,

but I (D)do know who I’ll (G)be.

These (D)mem ’ries and names, like (G)leaves, all hang

on us,

the (D)fam

’ly (C)tree.

We’re (G)old er

We’re (C)so much (G)more than (Am7)blood, we’re (G)more than (D)names.

We’re (Em)bound by (D)bonds that (C)on ly (G)God sus (Am7)tains.

But (G)this (C)time of (G)year, we all (C)gath er (G)here,

and I (C)al ways

(G)know I’m home.

There are (G)voic es (C)now

where (D)si lence (G)was;

the (G)sub tle (C)signs

of (D)grow ing (G)up.

Where (G)one is (C)born,

an (D)oth er (Em)leaves;

(C)branch es on the (Dsus)fam ’ly (C)tree.

Family Tree by Dave Barnes — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Family Tree” by Dave Barnes 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 G at 69 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 "Family Tree" 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 "Family Tree"?
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 "Family Tree" use?
Just 8 chords: A7, Am7, C, D, Dsus4, Em, G, Gmaj7. Take it one section at a time.
What other Dave Barnes songs work for kids?
Try "AMEN", "On a Night Like This", "I HAVE AND ALWAYS WILL". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.