Big Ben Looks On

Walford Davies

ModernObscurepreludeModerato4/4~3 min
H3
Henle (estimated)
RCM 3ABRSM 3

About this piece

This is a character piece by Walford Davies, often associated with his BBC broadcasts. It is distinguished by a quintessentially British sentimental charm and atmospheric harmonic language.

Teacher notes

Focus on the balance of the melody in the middle register against simple chordal accompaniment.

Technical focus

articulationvoicingcantabile

Mood

contemplativenarrative

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Big Ben Looks On

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 Big Ben Looks On by Walford Davies?

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

What level do I need to play Big Ben Looks On?

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 Big Ben Looks On?

A typical performance of Big Ben Looks On lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Big Ben Looks On?

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

What pieces are similar to Big Ben Looks On?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Barafostus Dreame, MB 62 by Thomas Tomkins, Bogurodzica by Adalbert of Prague, Barafostus Dreame by Thomas Tomkins — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.