The Bridge

by Elton John

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Lyrics

I’ve (D)seen the bridge, and the (Em)bridge is long.

And they (A)built it high, and they (G)built it strong, strong e (Bm)nough to hold the (Em)weight of time, long e (D)nough to leave some of (A)us be hind.

And ev ’ry one of us has to face that day; do you (A)cross the bridge, or do you (F#m)fade a way?

And ev ’ry (G)one of us that ev er (Gm)came to play has to (D)cross the bridge or (A)fade

a way.

(Em)Stand ing (D)on the bridge look ing (Em)at the waves, seen so (A)man y jump; nev er (G)seen one saved.

On a (Bm)dis tant beach, your (Em)song can die on a (D)bit ter wind, on a (A)cru el tide.

And ev ’ry one of us has to face that day; do you (A)cross the bridge, or do you (F#m)fade a way?

And ev ’ry (G)one of us that ev er (Gm)came to play has to (D)cross the bridge or (A)fade

a way.

(Em)Stand ing

And the (G)bridge, it shines,

all (G)cold hard iron,

say ing, (Em7)“Come and risk it all

or die (D)try

(A)ing.”

And ev ’ry (Bm)one of us has to (Em7)face that day; do you (A)cross the bridge, or do you (F#m)fade a way?

And ev ’ry (G)one of us that ev er (Gm)came to play has to (D)cross the bridge or (A)fade

a way,

has to (D)cross the bridge or (A)fade

a way.

The Bridge by Elton John — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “The Bridge” by Elton John 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 D at 107 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 Bridge" 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 Bridge"?
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 "The Bridge" use?
Just 9 chords: A, Asus4, Bm, D, Em, Em7, F#m, G, +1 more. Take it one section at a time.
What other Elton John songs work for kids?
Try "SOMEONE SAVED MY LIFE TONIGHT", "CROCODILE ROCK", "BURN DOWN THE MISSION". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.