How Soon

by Henry Mancini

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Lyrics

How (F)soon

the flame of love can (Gm)die.

How (C7)soon

good night be comes good (F)bye.

You’re (D)gone (D7)now

and life goes (Gm)on now,

and ev ’ry (Cm)thing

seems (D7)out

of (G)tune.

But (F)time

can bring a change of (Gm)heart

and (C7)love

can make an oth er (A)start.

Some (Gm)day

you (G#dim7)may come back to (F)me

to (B)stay,

but (Gm7)who

can (C7)say

how (F)soon.

How (F)soon

the flame of love can (Gm)die.

How (C7)soon

good night be comes good (F)bye.

You’re (D)gone (D7)now

and life goes (Gm)on now,

and ev ’ry (Cm)thing

seems (D7)out

of (G)tune.

But (F)time

can bring a change of (Gm)heart

and (C7)love

can make an oth er (A)start.

Some (Gm)day

you (G#dim7)may come back to (F)me

to (B)stay,

but (Gm7)who

can (C7)say

how (F)soon.

How (Gbmaj7)soon.

How Soon by Henry Mancini — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “How Soon” 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 Bb at 110 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 "How Soon" 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 "How Soon"?
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 "How Soon" use?
Just 12 chords: Am7, Bm7, C7, C9, Cm, D7, F, Fmaj9, +4 more. Take it one section at a time.
What other Henry Mancini songs work for kids?
Try "TWO FOR THE ROAD", "DAYS OF WINE AND ROSES", "SOMETIMES". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.