The Skye Boat Song

by Traditional

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Lyrics

(G)Speed, bon nie boat, like a (D7)bird on the wing.

(G)On ward!

the (C)sail ors (D7)cry.

(G)Car ry the lad who was (D7)born to be king (G)o ver the (C)sea to (G)Skye.

(G)Loud the winds howl, (Am)loud the waves roar, (Em)thun der claps rend the air.

(G)Baf fled, our foes (Am)stand by the shore.

(Em)Fol low, they will not dare.

(G)Speed, bon nie boat, like a (D7)bird on the wing.

(G)On ward!

the (C)sail ors (D7)cry.

(G)Car ry the lad who was (D7)born to be king (G)o ver the (C)sea to (G)Skye.

(G)Though the waves leap, (Am)soft shall ye sleep; (Em)o cean’s a roy al bed.

(G)Rocked in the deep, (Am)flo ra will keep.

(Em)Watch by your wea ry head.

field.

(G)Skye.

The Skye Boat Song by Traditional — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “The Skye Boat Song” by Traditional 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 G at 90 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 Skye Boat Song" 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 Skye Boat Song"?
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.