Once I Loved

by Antonio Carlos Jobim

Loading song
Fetching song
1
—
Play in Full ModesMore Songs for Kids
Lyrics

(Gm7)Once,

I loved.

And I (Gm7)gave so much love to this (G#dim7)love, you were the (Am7)world to me.

(Fm7)Once,

I cried

at the (E)thought.

I was fool ish and (Eb)proud and let you say (Dmaj7)good bye.

(Gm7)Then,

one day,

from my (Gm7)in fi nite sad ness you (G#dim7)came and brought me (Am7)love a gain.

(Fm7)Now

I know

that no (E)mat ter what ev er be (Eb)falls, I’ll nev er say (Dmaj7)good bye.

let (Dmaj7)you go.

(G7)I will hold you close.

(F13)Make you stay.

Be cause (Bdim7)love is the sad dest (Bbm6)thing when it goes a way.

(G7)Love is the sad dest (Gm7)thing when it goes a way.

Once I Loved by Antonio Carlos Jobim — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Once I Loved” by Antonio Carlos Jobim 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 160 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 "Once I Loved" 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 "Once I Loved"?
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 "Once I Loved" use?
Just 25 chords: A7, Ab9, Am7, Bb9, Bbm6, Bbmaj7, Bdim7, C9, +17 more. Take it one section at a time.
What other Antonio Carlos Jobim songs work for kids?
Try "DINDI", "IF YOU NEVER COME TO ME", "Desafinado (Slightly Out Of Tune)". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.