La chanson d’Hélène

PHILIPPE SARDE

Composed by Philippe Sarde with lyrics by Jean-Loup Dabadie, La Chanson d’Hélène is the iconic theme from Claude Sautet’s 1970 film Les Choses de la Vie. Originally performed by Romy Schneider and Michel Piccoli, this melody, filled with melancholy and tenderness, perfectly complements the film’s nostalgic and poignant atmosphere.

With its pure melodic line and subtle harmony, La Chanson d’Hélène is a highly expressive piece where each note seems to carry the weight of the characters’ memories and emotions. Its apparent simplicity hides a rare depth, making it an ideal composition for developing interpretation and sensitivity on the piano.

"Learn to play this beautiful piece with my Essential Piano Kit!"

What’s Included in This Piano Kit

Scrolling Score Tutorial

Follow the sheet music in real time, with hand positioning, fingering, and expressive playing to better understand the dynamics and phrasing.

La chanson d’Hélène – PHILIPPE SARDE – Piano Sheet Music

PDF Sheet Music

Carefully adapted from my own interpretation, this sheet music is for those who wish to express the full nuance and sophistication of the piece.

✔️ Instant digital PDF download
✔️ Original key

Synthesia-type Tutorial

Learn the song visually with falling notes — ideal if you prefer practicing without reading sheet music.

MIDI File

High-quality MIDI file to use with an app or digital keyboard

✔️Clean MIDI Version: Matches exactly the sheet music — perfect for structured practice.
✔️ Compatible with apps likeSynthesiaor digital pianos that include a learning mode.
✔️ Original key
✔️ Left and right hands are separated into two tracks
✔️ Ideal for visual learners or those looking to supplement sheet music
✔️ Instant digital download

🎯 Train with precision… then perform with feeling!

Lyrics ▼

Ce soir nous sommes septembre
et j'ai fermé ma chambre
Le soleil n'y entrera plus
Tu ne m'aimes plus
Là-haut un oiseau passe
comme une dédicace
Dans le ciel

Parlé:
Je t'aimais tant Hélène
Il faut se quitter
Les avions partiront sans nous
Je ne sais plus t'aimer Hélène

Avant dans la maison
j'aimais quand nous vivions
Comme dans un dessin d'enfant
Tu ne m'aimes plus
Je regarde le soir
tomber dans les miroirs
C'est ma vie

Parlé:
C'est mieux ainsi Hélène
C'était l'amour sans amitié
Il va falloir changer de mémoire
Je ne t'écrirai plus Hélène

L'histoire n'est plus à suivre
et j'ai fermé le livre
Le soleil n'y entrera plus
Tu ne m'aimes plus