Beginner piece
How to play Au clair de la lune on piano
A French folk song from the 1700s, and a favourite in many method books because it repeats a short phrase and then answers it. It is a good piece for practising even rhythm.
- Composer
- Traditional (French)
- Level
- Beginner
- Key
- C major or G major, depending on the book
- Time signature
- 4/4
- Hands
- Right hand, then both
What makes it tricky
- The rhythm of the first phrase: three short, then a long note. Say "da da da, daaa" before you play.
- Keeping the long note full length. It is easy to cut it short.
A three-step practice plan
- Say the rhythm out loud, then play it on one note.
- Add the actual notes, one phrase at a time.
- Play the full tune twice in a row without stopping.