One, Two, Three, Four, Five Once I Caught A Fish Alive
1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Once I Caught A Fish Alive
Verse 1
[C]One, two, three, four, five
Once I caught a [G]fish alive
Six, seven, eight, nine, ten
[G]Then I let it [C]go again.
Verse 2
[C]Why did you let it go?
Because it bit my [G]finger so
Which finger did it bite?
This little finger [C]on my right
The Fascinating History behind '1,2,3,4,5 Once I Caught a Fish Alive'
At Ukuleles Unanimous, we celebrate timeless tunes, and few are as universally cherished as the classic nursery rhyme ‘1,2,3,4,5 Once I Caught a Fish Alive.’ This catchy counting song has been delighting children and parents alike for generations. Its origins trace back to the 18th century, making it not only a delightful earworm but also a piece of historical charm.
Education Through Folk Music
First appearing in print around the mid-1800s, this rhyme is rooted in oral tradition, passed down through families and communities. It reflects the playful simplicity of traditional folk songs, which were often used to teach numbers, rhythm, and coordination to children. The ‘fish alive’ theme captures the curiosity and innocence of childhood while encouraging interaction with the natural world.
The rhyme's enduring appeal lies in its cheerful melody and rhythmic repetition - perfectly suited for ukulele accompaniment!
Its easy-to-remember structure makes it a go-to for music educators and budding ukulele players looking to strum their first tune. With just a few chords, you can bring this much loved piece of history to life and connect with generations who sang it before us.
Whether you’re a parent introducing your little ones to musical fun or a ukulele enthusiast looking to revisit childhood memories, ‘1,2,3,4,5 Once I Caught a Fish Alive’ is a testament to the power of music to transcend time and bring joy to all!
Happy Strumming 😊
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The chord arrangement shown above is the author's own work as an interpretation of the song. This song sheet may only be used for educational purposes.
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