Printable When the Saints Go Marching In Guitar Chords
The cheerful three-chord standard. If you can change between G, C and D, you can play this today. This is the song to play when you want proof that you can play guitar. The chords are the three most common in beginner guitar, the rhythm is a straight four, and the tune is instantly recognisable even played badly. It is also the standard test piece for whether your chord changes are ready for real music. This printable song sheet has every chord shape you need, the chord order bar by bar, the strumming pattern and simple steps to learn it. The song is in the public domain and the arrangement is Fretwork's own.
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What’s inside
- Chord diagrams for G, C, D, G7
- Chord order, bar by bar
- Strumming or picking pattern
- Step-by-step learning plan
How to use it
- Print the sheet and learn the chord shapes first.
- Practice the chord changes slowly, then add the strum or picking pattern.
- Play along with the free click track on the song page, raising the tempo as you improve.
Learn it step by step, free
Fretwork turns sheets like this into short daily lessons with audio, a play-along and a quick check for every skill. Stages 0 and 1 are free.
Questions
What chords do I need for When the Saints Go Marching In?
G, C and D, plus G7 which is an easy one-finger change from G. Four chords in total and all of them open.
Is When the Saints Go Marching In easy on guitar?
It is one of the easiest real songs there is. Three main chords, a steady four-beat rhythm and a melody most people already know.
What strumming pattern should I use?
Start with four down-strums per bar. Once that is steady, try down, down, down-up, down-up, which gives it more of a marching feel.
Is this printable really free?
Yes. Enter your first name and email once and every Fretwork printable unlocks on your device. There is nothing to pay and no card needed.
Can I share it with students or friends?
Yes, for personal and classroom use. Please share the link to this page rather than the PDF file, so everyone gets the latest version.
Free for classroom use. Linking to this page keeps your students on the latest version.
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