If

by Bread
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Lyrics

If a (A)pic ture paints a thou sand words, then why can’t I paint (Bm7)you?

The words will nev er show

the you I’ve come to know.

If a (A)face could launch a thou sand ships,

then (A9)where am I to go?

There’s no one home but you;

you’re all that’s left me (E7)too.

And when

my love

for life is run ning (D6)dry,

you (C#)come

and pour

your (Bm7)self

on (E7)me.

If a (A)man could be two plac es at one time, I’d be with (Bm7)you

to mor row and to day,

be side you all the way.

If the (A)world should stop re volv ing, spin ning (A9)slow ly down to die,

I’d spend the end with you;

and when the world was (E7)through,

then one

by one

the stars would all go (D6)out.

Then (C#)you

and I

would (Bm7)self

on (E7)me.

If a (Bm7)sim

ply (D)fly

a (A)way.

If — Simple Sheet Music

9 people have learned this song

"If" in simplified sheet music format — the bridge between beginner modes and real sheet music. Color-coded notes with lyrics scrolling horizontally. Perfect for learning to read music. Key of A, 100 BPM.

Teacher’s notes

This arrangement is a lovely way to get comfortable with extended chords — you'll encounter shapes like Amaj9, A9, and Bm7 that add richness without demanding big stretches, so pay attention to how each voicing colors the melody differently.

Your left hand follows an oompah bass pattern throughout, which at 100 BPM gives you plenty of time to land each bass note before bouncing up to the chord, but the real challenge is keeping that pattern smooth and quiet beneath the right-hand melody.

Watch the transition from D6 into E7 and then the pull to F#7 — that's where most students stumble, so loop those two bars hands-separate until the fingering feels automatic.

Use the sustain pedal lightly, changing it with each new bass note to avoid muddiness.

Start at around 70 BPM and only speed up once both hands feel relaxed.

This is the piece that will make ninth chords feel like home under your fingers.

About “If

How does Simplified Piano Arrangement differ from full sheet music for "If"?
Simplified Arrangement keeps the melody and chords on a simplified staff with lyrics, color-coded for easy recognition. It's a learner-bridge between Beginner mode and the classic engraved Sheet Music — same song, less visual density.
What key is "If" by Bread played in?
If is arranged in the key of A on Super Simple Piano. You can transpose to any other key live in the player.
What's the tempo (BPM) of "If"?
The arrangement plays at 100 BPM. Use the speed control (10-200%) to practice slower or play faster.
Is "If" easy to play on piano?
Yes — this is one of our beginner-friendly arrangements with simplified chords and color-coded notes.
Can I download sheet music for "If"?
Yes — registered users can download PDF sheet music, plus MIDI and MusicXML files for use in other notation software.
Who composed "If"?
"If" was originally performed by Bread. The Super Simple Piano arrangement is simplified for beginner-to-intermediate players.
What chords are used in "If"?
This arrangement uses 10 chords: A, A9, Amaj9, Bm7, C#m7, D, D6, E7, +2 more.
What other songs by Bread can I play here?
Try "BABY, I'M-A WANT YOU", "EVERYTHING I OWN", "IT DON'T MATTER TO ME". All are in our player with color-coded notes; pick the one matching your level.
Is Simple Sheet good for learning to read sheet music?
Yes! Simple Sheet bridges the gap between beginner color-coded modes and traditional notation. Notes are displayed on a simplified staff with colors, lyrics, and chords — helping you build music reading skills gradually while still enjoying "If". Key of A, 100 BPM.
What's the difference between Simple Sheet and Lead Sheet?
Simple Sheet shows a more streamlined, horizontally scrolling view with color-coded notes on a staff and lyrics below — like a simplified version of real sheet music. Lead Sheet shows melody with chord symbols above and full lyrics. Simple Sheet is the next step toward reading traditional notation.

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