Stay With Me

· by Stephen Sondheim

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Lyrics

What did I clear ly say?

Chil dren must lis ten.

What were you not to do?

Chil dren must see—

And learn.

Why could you not o bey?

Chil dren should lis ten?

What have I been to you?

What would you have me be, Hand some like a prince?

Ah, but I am old, I am ug ly.

I em bar rass you.

You are a shamed of me.

You are a shamed.

You don’t un der stand.

Don’t you know what’s out there in the world?

Some one has to shield you from the world.

Stay with me.

Princ es wait there in the world, it’s true.

Princ es, yes, but wolves and hu mans, too.

Stay at home.

I am home.

Who out there

could love you more than I?

What out there

that I can not sup ply?

Stay with me.

Stay with me, The world is dark and wild.

Stay a child while you can be a child.

With me.

Stay With Me by Stephen Sondheim — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Stay With Me” by Stephen Sondheim 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 A at 100 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 "Stay With Me" 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 "Stay With Me"?: 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 Stephen Sondheim songs work for kids?: Try "LOSING MY MIND", "Agony (Film Version)", "Any Moment - Part I". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.