I Saw Three Ships

by Traditional Carol

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Lyrics

I (G)saw three (D7)ships come (G)sail ing (D7)in, On (G)Christ mas (A7)Day, on (D7)Christ mas Day; I (G)saw three (D7)ships come (G)sail ing (D7)in, On (G)Christ mas (A7)Day, in the (D7)morn (G)ing.

And what was (D7)in those (G)ships all (D7)three On (G)Christ mas (A7)Day, on (D7)Christ mas Day?

And (G)what was (D7)in those (G)ships all (D7)three, On (G)Christ mas (A7)Day, in the (D7)morn (G)ing?

The Vir gin (D7)Mar y and (G)Christ were (D7)there, On (G)Christ mas Day, on (D7)Christ mas Day; The (G)Vir gin (D7)Mar y and (G)Christ were (D7)there, On (G)Christ mas (Em)Day in the (D7)morn (G)ing.

I Saw Three Ships by Traditional Carol — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “I Saw Three Ships” by Traditional Carol 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 158 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 "I Saw Three Ships" 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 "I Saw Three Ships"?
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.
What other Traditional Carol songs work for kids?
Try "A Jolly Merry Christmas", "A Jolly Merry Christmas", "Angels We Have Heard On High". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.