Amazing Grace (Extended) — Kalimba Tabs & Number Notation
Learn to play Amazing Grace (Extended) on kalimba with free numbered tabs, interactive player, and beginner-friendly practice tips. Original by John Newton. No download required.
Amazing Grace (Extended)
奇异恩典（完整版）
Interactive tab notes
Click any standard 17-key kalimba number to preview it. Symbols below the notes show approximate length.
Numbered Notation for Amazing Grace (Extended)
| 5 5 6 1 1 3 | | 1 6 5 6 5 3 | | 5 5 6 1 1 3 | | 1 1 3 5 3 1 | ... | 1 3 1 6 5 6 | | 5 3 |
About Amazing Grace (Extended)
Amazing Grace is one of the most beloved hymns ever written, and this extended arrangement gives you more of the melody to work with than a basic version. The song moves stepwise for the most part, with a few touching leaps that give it emotional power. On the kalimba, those leaps ring out especially clearly because each tine is a pure bell tone. The arrangement is in C major at around 90 BPM. The melody starts low and rises to a high point, then descends back down. What makes this extended version interesting is that it includes the second and third phrases of the verse, which have slight melodic variations. The rhythm is simple: mostly quarter notes with a few eighth notes and dotted notes. The song is in 4/4 time with a gentle, flowing character.
How to Play Amazing Grace (Extended) on Kalimba
The song starts on C5 or G4 and moves through the middle octave. Your thumbs alternate smoothly as the melody rises and falls. The opening phrase 'Amazing grace, how sweet the sound' starts low and ascends gradually. The notes move mostly in steps with a few small leaps. The highest note in the melody comes on the word 'saved' (or similar), which on kalimba translates to a satisfying leap up to E5 or G5. Let that high note ring out before descending. The extended version repeats the melody with slight variations for each verse. Pay attention to the dotted quarter notes — these are held slightly longer and create the flowing, hymn-like feel. Use a metronome at 80 BPM when learning. Count carefully through the longer notes. The song ends on a held note that should fade naturally.
Why This Song Fits Beginner Players
This is a beginner piece because the melody moves mostly stepwise and the tempo is relaxed. The extended version gives you more material to work with, which is good for building stamina and memorization. The rhythm is simple and the range is comfortable. This teaches you to play with phrasing and to shape a melody over multiple verses.
Chords & Key Signature
Single-note melody in C major. The implied harmony is I - IV - V - I (C - F - G - C), classic hymn harmony. All notes are natural, perfect for a standard C major kalimba.
Practice Tips
- Sing the lyrics while you play. If you know the words, it's much easier to remember the melody.
- Pay attention to the high note in each phrase. That's the emotional peak — let it ring out.
- Use a metronome at 80 BPM. Feel the steady pulse and let the dotted notes flow.
- Practice each verse separately, then string them together.
- Listen to a traditional hymn recording to hear the phrasing and pacing.
- Once comfortable, try playing it from memory. The melody is repetitive and easy to memorize.
- This is a good song to play for contemplative or spiritual occasions.
Try it on the virtual kalimba
Open the 17-key virtual kalimba and play Amazing Grace (Extended) note by note. Hear the melody, practice the flow, and build muscle memory.
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FAQ
How is this different from the basic Amazing Grace?
This extended version includes additional phrases of the verse, giving you more melody to play. The basic version is usually just the first phrase repeated. This one lets you play a full verse or multiple verses.
Do I need to know all the verses?
Not at all. Many people only know the first verse. You can play just the first verse repeatedly, or loop the melody. Knowing the lyrics helps with phrasing, but it's not required.
Can I play this faster?
You can, but hymns are traditionally played at a moderate to slow tempo to allow for reflection. If you go too fast, it loses the contemplative character. Keep it around 80-90 BPM.
Is this appropriate for non-religious occasions?
Amazing Grace has become a cultural standard beyond its religious origins. It's often played at memorials, gatherings, and contemplative occasions regardless of religious context. The melody is universally recognized.
Should I practice this song slowly first?
Yes. Slow practice helps you build clean note transitions and steadier rhythm before speed becomes a goal.
What should I play next after this song?
A related hymn song or another beginner tab is usually the best next step because the skill transfer is smoother.