A Thousand Years
The most played wedding song of the 2010s – calm, even and without a single hard passage.
The piece at a glance
- Composer
- Christina Perri, David Hodges
- Year
- 2011
- Origin
- Film score for Breaking Dawn
- Key
- B♭ major
- Level
- Beginner
- Keys recommended
- 61 are enough
How difficult is it?
A running arpeggio in the right hand over few chords. Once you have the pattern, you have the piece.
The real hurdle
Two flats and a figure that stays the same for five minutes – stamina beats technique.
How long does it take?
One to two weeks.
A rule of thumb, not a rule – how fast it goes depends on prior experience and practice time. This level is an assessment, not a measurement: most pieces exist in arrangements ranging from heavily simplified to concert level. The rating refers to the common arrangement.
Which instrument suits it?
61 keys are enough; with singing a transpose function pays off.
Instruments that suit it
Casio CT-S300 EU approx. €160–185Light, sturdy, with a carry handle – the uncomplicated kids’ and second keyboard.
Korg B2 EU approx. €350–440The overlooked fifth player: real hammer action from a heritage maker – often the cheapest serious 88.
Roland RP-107 EU approx. €980–1,100Cabinet digital piano with PHA-4 Standard action.
The catalogue lists 233 instruments with verified data – key count, action and connections documented rather than claimed.
Where to find the sheet music
This piece is under copyright. Sheet music is available only from licensed publishers – free PDFs found online are usually not legal.
Modern editions and arrangements
Simplified versions, modern engraving and arrangements are available from the usual sheet music retailers. We will add direct links here shortly.
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is A Thousand Years?
A running arpeggio in the right hand over few chords. Once you have the pattern, you have the piece.
What key is A Thousand Years in?
A Thousand Years is in B♭ major.
How many keys do you need for A Thousand Years?
An instrument with 61 keys is enough for this piece.
Who composed A Thousand Years?
Christina Perri, David Hodges, 2011.
Can you download the sheet music for A Thousand Years for free?
This piece is under copyright. Sheet music is available only from licensed publishers – free PDFs found online are usually not legal.
How long does it take to learn A Thousand Years?
One to two weeks.
If this suits you
Perfect Ed SheeranSheeran’s wedding waltz – the six-eight metre makes it softer than most pop ballads.
My Heart Will Go On (Titanic) James HornerThe flute melody that came out of every radio in 1997 – calmer on the piano, just as recognisable.