Beginner piece
How to play Row, Row, Row Your Boat on piano
A rocking tune that is also a classic round, which makes it useful later for playing it with a friend. Books write it in 6/8 or in 4/4, so check the time signature at the start of your page.
- Composer
- Traditional
- Level
- Beginner
- Key
- C major
- Time signature
- 6/8 or 4/4, depending on the book
- Hands
- Right hand, then both
What makes it tricky
- The three-beat feel. If your book uses 6/8, feel two big beats with three small ones in each.
- Notes that go up through the octave on "merrily, merrily". Keep the hand relaxed.
A three-step practice plan
- Tap the rhythm on your knee while you say the words.
- Play the first line slowly and count each beat.
- Add the other lines, then try the whole tune twice through.