The lead sheet for “The ABC” is available for download as a PDF.

The ABC

“The ABC” is a traditional English-language children’s song used to teach the alphabet, most often sung to the French melody “Ah! vous dirai-je, maman.” That tune dates to at least the mid-18th century and was already widely known in Europe before it entered the classroom.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart did not compose the melody, but he helped preserve it by writing Variations on “Ah! vous dirai-je, maman”, K. 265/300e, around 1781–82. His twelve piano variations brought the simple tune into the concert repertoire, ensuring its survival and wider circulation.

In the early 19th century, educators paired the familiar melody with alphabet lyrics, recognizing its clarity and memorability. The same tune also carried “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” and later “Baa, Baa, Black Sheep,” and by the late 19th century, printed primers and recordings had standardized the version still sung today.

Lead Sheet

“The ABC” is available for download as a PDF in a bundle with 10 other songs.

Happy Birthday – Frère Jacques – Hush, Little Baby – London Bridge is Falling Down – Mary Had a Little Lamb – This Old Man – Twinkle Twinkle Little Star – Baa, Baa Black Sheep – The ABC – Three Blind Mice – Row, Row, Row Your Boat

Download 11 Nursery Rhymes – Lead Sheets (11 Individual PDF Files)

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