Big Bens' Variations

Michel CardinauxOp.4

ModernObscuretheme-and-variationsC majorAllegretto4/4~5 min
H4
Henle (estimated)
RCM 4ABRSM 4

About this piece

A set of variations based on the Westminster chimes theme. It serves as a pedagogical study in contrasting different keyboard textures within a single melodic framework.

Teacher notes

Maintain rhythmic precision across the various stylistic shifts of the variations.

Technical focus

articulationfinger-independence

Mood

playfulelegant

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Big Bens' Variations

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

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Frequently asked questions

How hard is Big Bens' Variations (Op.4) by Michel Cardinaux?

Big Bens' Variations (Op.4) is rated Henle level 4 of 9 — intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 5–6. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 4.

What level do I need to play Big Bens' Variations?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 4 — meaning you can already play level 3–4 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 Bens' Variations?

A typical performance of Big Bens' Variations (Op.4) lasts about 5 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Big Bens' Variations?

Big Bens' Variations (Op.4) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Big Bens' Variations?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include The Entertainer by Scott Joplin, 12 Variations on "Ah vous dirais-je, Maman" by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Piano Sonata No. 11 in A major by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.