Playing the songs you’ve heard over and over

Why Simple Songs Matter for Music Students
by Henry Bahrou – Guitarist, Music Theorist, Music Academy Director

You might not be thrilled at the idea of learning “Jingle Bells,” “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” or “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,” but like it or not, these tunes will echo in your mind the moment they’re mentioned. Don’t let the simplicity—or the lyrics—distract you from the real value these songs offer.

Simple melodies serve as excellent tools for building core musical skills. They strengthen fundamentals in listening, reading, harmony, rhythm, and song structure. While each song varies in complexity, every one offers important lessons and new challenges. Recognizing melodic and rhythmic patterns in these songs acts as a powerful mnemonic device, sharpening a student’s ability to identify musical intervals and develop stronger listening skills.

This isn’t to say that all your practice time should be devoted to children’s songs. Instead, think of them as foundational exercises—just like martial arts students start with a white belt. Although music doesn’t typically involve a belt system, approaching lessons with the humility and focus of a beginner (“wearing the white belt”) sets students up for long-term success.

Here’s a list of suggested songs and categories to help build a strong musical foundation:

Nursery and Children’s Songs:

• Mary Had a Little Lamb
• Hot Cross Buns
• Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

Traditional American Folk:

• Oh Susanna
• This Land Is Your Land
• Yankee Doodle
• I’ve Been Working on the Railroad
• Home on the Range

Patriotic Songs:

• When the Saints Go Marching In
• Star-Spangled Banner
• America (My Country, ‘Tis of Thee)
• Auld Lang Syne
• Taps
• O Canada

TV Themes:

• Jeopardy Theme
• Flintstones Theme

Christmas Classics:

• Joy to the World
• Here Comes Santa Claus
• Silent Night

Other Essentials:

• Happy Birthday
• Take Me Out to the Ballgame
• Hail to the Victors
• Hava Nagila

Learning these simple pieces builds musical fluency and lays the groundwork for mastering the more complex songs you truly aspire to play.