Hallelujah
The song played at weddings and funerals alike – with a chord progression the lyrics themselves describe.
The piece at a glance
- Composer
- Leonard Cohen
- Year
- 1984
- Origin
- Album Various Positions
- Key
- C major
- Level
- Beginner
- Keys recommended
- 61 are enough
How difficult is it?
Six chords in six-eight time, repeating throughout. One of the most rewarding accompaniment pieces there is.
The real hurdle
Six-eight wants to flow, not to be counted. Thinking it as “one-two-three” sounds stiff.
How long does it take?
A week for the accompaniment.
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.
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 Hallelujah?
Six chords in six-eight time, repeating throughout. One of the most rewarding accompaniment pieces there is.
What key is Hallelujah in?
Hallelujah is in C major.
How many keys do you need for Hallelujah?
An instrument with 61 keys is enough for this piece.
Who composed Hallelujah?
Leonard Cohen, 1984.
Can you download the sheet music for Hallelujah 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 Hallelujah?
A week for the accompaniment.
If this suits you
Imagine John LennonProbably the best-known piano accompaniment in pop history – and one of the friendliest for beginners.
A Thousand Years Christina Perri, David HodgesThe most played wedding song of the 2010s – calm, even and without a single hard passage.