Semper Paratus

by Homer Smith

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Lyrics

(C7)From (F)north and south and east and west, the Coast Guard’s in the fight.

De (C7)stroy ing subs and (F)land ing troops, the (G7)Ax is feels our (C7)might.

For (F)we’re the first in vad ers on ev r’y fight ing field.

A (C7)float, a shore, on (F)men and spars you’ll find the (C7)Coast Guard (F)shield.

(F)We’re al ways read y for the call,

we (Bb)place our trust in (F)thee.

Through (C7)surf and storm and (F)howl (A7)ing (Dm)gale, high (C)shall our (G7)pur pose (C)be.

(F)“Sem per pa ra tus” is our guide,

our (Bb)fame, our glo ry (F)too.

To (C7)fight to save or (F)fight and (Dm)die!

Aye!

(F)Coast Guard, we (G7)are (C7)for (F)you!

(F)We’re al ways read y for the call,

we (Bb)place our trust in (F)thee.

Through (C7)howl ing gale and (F)shot (A7)and (Dm)shell, to (C)win our (G7)vic to (C)ry.

(F)“Sem per pa ra tus” is our guide,

our (Bb)pledge, our mot to (F)too.

We’re (C7)“al ways read y,” (F)do or (Dm)die!

Aye!

(F)Coast Guard, we (G7)fight (C7)for (F)you!

(F)you!

Semper Paratus by Homer Smith — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Semper Paratus by Homer Smith 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 180 BPM, a slightly more challenging arrangement — practice each phrase slowly first.

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 "Semper Paratus" 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 "Semper Paratus"?
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.