The Minstrel Boy
View chords used in this chart
verse 1:
C F C Am
The minstrel boy to the war is gone
F C G C
In the ranks of death you will find him
C F C Am
His father's sword he has girded on
F C G C
And his wild harp slung behind him
verse 2:
Am F G C
"Land of song," said the warrior bard
Am F C
"Though all the world betray thee
Am F C Am
One sword, at least, thy right shall guard
F C G C
One faithful heart shall praise thee"
INTERLUDE: C F C Am F C G C
verse 3:
C F C Am
The minstrel fell, but the foeman's chain
F C G C
Could not bring that proud soul under
C F C Am
The harp he loved ne'er spoke again
F C G C
For he tore its cords asunder
verse 4:
Am F G C
And said, "No chain shall sully thee
Am F C
Thou soul of love and bravery
Am F C Am
My songs were made for the pure and free
F C G C
They shall never sound in slavery"
OUTRO: C Am F G C
How to play The Minstrel Boy
Use the controls above to change the key and text size. Follow the highlighted chords while listening, then practice each section slowly before playing at the original tempo.
What is the starting chord?
The first identified chord is C. You can transpose without leaving the page.
Can I play it on guitar or keyboard?
Yes. The chord progression works on acoustic guitar, electric guitar and keyboard. Adapt the voicings to your instrument and level.