Alexander

Harry Von Tilzer

ModernObscuremarchC majorAllegro4/4~3 min
H3
Henle (estimated)
RCM 4ABRSM 3

About this piece

This is a typical example of a Tin Pan Alley era piano piece designed for popular consumption. It relies on a driving, repetitive rhythm and basic harmonic progressions to sustain listener interest.

Teacher notes

Ensure the phrasing is consistently punctuated to maintain the forward momentum of the piece.

Technical focus

articulationleft-hand-independencespeed-agility

Mood

energeticplayful

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Not in your repertoire

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Alexander

Comparable difficulty and character — good candidates for what to learn next.

Browse all Henle level 3 pieces (Late beginner) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Alexander by Harry Von Tilzer?

Alexander is rated Henle level 3 of 9 — late beginner repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 4–5. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 4.

What level do I need to play Alexander?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 3 — meaning you can already play level 2–3 pieces cleanly. Learning it one level early is possible as a stretch piece, but more than that usually leads to months of frustration.

How long is Alexander?

A typical performance of Alexander lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Alexander?

Alexander is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Alexander?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Alexander's Ragtime Band by Irving Berlin, Waltz in D-flat major, No. 1 by Frédéric Chopin, 12 Variations on 'Ah vous dirai-je, Maman' by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.