Ohio

by Leonard Bernstein

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Lyrics

(Eb)Why, oh (Ab)why, oh (Eb)why o,

why did I ev er leave O (Ab)hi o?

(Fm)Why did I wan der to (C7)find what lies yon der, when (F7)life was so co zy at home?

(Eb)Won d’ring (Ab)while I (Eb)wan der,

(Eb7)why did I (Eb9)fly?

(Ab6)Why did I roam?

(Fm6)Oh why, oh why o did (C7)I leave O hi o?

(Bb7)May be I’d bet ter go (C7)O H I O.

(Bb7)May be I’d bet ter go (Bb7)home.

(Eb)Why, oh (Ab)why, oh (Eb)why o,

why did I ev er leave O (Ab)hi o?

(Fm)Why did I wan der to (C7)find what lies yon der, when (F7)life was so co zy at home?

(Eb)Won d’ring (Ab)while I (Eb)wan der,

(Eb7)why did I (Eb9)fly?

(Ab6)Why did I roam?

(Fm6)Oh why, oh why o did (C7)I leave O hi o?

(Bb7)May be I’d bet ter go (C7)O H I O.

(Bb7)May be I’d bet ter go (Bb7)home.

(Eb)home.

Ohio by Leonard Bernstein — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Ohio” by Leonard Bernstein 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 Ab at 85 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 "Ohio" 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 "Ohio"?
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 Leonard Bernstein songs work for kids?
Try "A Little Bit In Love", "Lonely Town (from On The Town)", "Make Our Garden Grow (from Candide)". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.