The Bare Necessities

by Terry Gilkyson

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Lyrics

Look for the bare ne ces si ties, the (Bb)sim ple bare ne (Bb7)ces si ties, for (F)get a bout your (D7)wor ries and your (G7)strife.

I mean the bare ne ces si ties or (Bb)Moth er Na ture’s (Bb7)re ci pes that (F)bring the (D7)bare ne (G7)ces si ties of (F)life.

Wher ev er I (C)wan der, wher ev er I (F)roam,

I could n’t be (C)fond er of my big (F)home.

The bees are (Bb)buzz in’ in the (Bbm)tree to make some (F)hon ey just for (G7)me.

The (Gm7)bare ne ces si ties of (C7)life will come to (F)you.

The Bare Necessities by Terry Gilkyson — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “The Bare Necessities” by Terry Gilkyson 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 200 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 "The Bare Necessities" 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 "The Bare Necessities"?
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 Terry Gilkyson songs work for kids?
Try "The Bare Necessities", "The Bare Necessities", "The Bare Necessities". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.