Put On A Happy Face

by Charles Strouse

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Lyrics

(F)Gray skies are gon na (D7)clear up, (Gm)put on a hap py (Gm7)face.

(F)Brush off the clouds and (D7)cheer up, (Gm)put on a hap py (Cm7)face.

(Bb)Take off the (E7)gloom y (A7)mask of (D7)trag e dy; it’s (C7)not your (F)style.

(Bb)You’ll look so (E7)good that (A7)you’ll be (D7)glad ya de (G7)cid ed to (C)smile!

(F)Pick out a pleas ant (D7)out look, (Gm)stick out that no ble (Gm7)chin.

(F)Wipe off that “full of (D7)doubt” look, (Gm)slap on a hap py (Cm7)grin.

(F7)And (C7)spread

(F)sun shine all (Gm7)o ver (C7)the (A7)place; (D7)just (G7)put on a (Gm7)hap (C7)py (F)face.

Put On A Happy Face by Charles Strouse — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Put On A Happy Face” by Charles Strouse 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 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 "Put On A Happy Face" 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 "Put On A Happy Face"?
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 Charles Strouse songs work for kids?
Try "YOU'RE NEVER FULLY DRESSED WITHOUT A SMILE", "I THINK I'M GONNA LIKE IT HERE", "MAYBE". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.