The Old Rugged Cross

by Rev. George Bennard

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Lyrics

On a (C)hill far (C)a way stood an (F)old rug (F)ged cross, (D)the (G)em blem of (G7)suf f’ring and (C)shame;

(G7)and I (C)love that (C)old cross, where the (F)dark est (F)and best (D)for a (G)world of lost (G7)sin ners was (C)slain.

So I’ll (G7)cher ish the old rug ged (C)cross

till my (F)tro phies at last I lay (C)down.

I will (C)cling to the old rug ged (F)cross

and ex (C)change it some (G7)day for a (C)crown.

To the (C)old rug (C)ged cross I will (F)ev er (F)be true, (D)its (G)shame and re (G7)proach glad ly (C)bear;

(G7)then He’ll (C)call me (C)some day to my (F)home far (F)a way, (D)where His (G)glo ry for (G7)ev er I’ll (C)share.

So I’ll (G7)cher ish the old rug ged (C)cross

till my (F)tro phies at last I lay (C)down.

I will (C)cling to the old rug ged (F)cross

and ex (C)change it some (G7)day for a (C)crown.

To the (C)crown.

The Old Rugged Cross by Rev. George Bennard — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “The Old Rugged Cross” by Rev. George Bennard 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 C at 135 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 Old Rugged Cross" 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 Old Rugged Cross"?
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 Rev. George Bennard songs work for kids?
Try "The Old Rugged Cross", "The Old Rugged Cross", "The Old Rugged Cross". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.