Alla bolero

Charles Neate

RomanticObscureboleroAllegro3/4~4 min
H5
Henle (estimated)
RCM 7ABRSM 6

About this piece

Charles Neate was a student of Beethoven who wrote this characteristic piece in the mid-19th century. It captures the rhythmic drive of the Spanish bolero adapted for the early Romantic salon aesthetic.

Teacher notes

Maintain a steady, rhythmic pulse in the left hand while executing the light, articulated ornaments in the right.

Technical focus

pedalingwaltz-rhythmfinger-independencearticulation

Mood

elegantenergetic

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

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Frequently asked questions

How hard is Alla bolero by Charles Neate?

Alla bolero is rated Henle level 5 of 9 — late intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 6–7. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 7.

What level do I need to play Alla bolero?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 5 — meaning you can already play level 4–5 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 Alla bolero?

A typical performance of Alla bolero lasts about 4 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Alla bolero?

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

What pieces are similar to Alla bolero?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Maple Leaf Rag by Scott Joplin, 12 Variations on "Ah vous dirais-je, Maman" by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, 'S Wonderful by George Gershwin — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.