Blah

Frederic Rzewski

ModernSpecialistetudePresto4/4~3 min
H8
Henle (estimated)
RCM 10ABRSM 8

About this piece

Blah is a minimalist-influenced etude by Frederic Rzewski, defined by its obsessive repetition and rapid-fire changes in dynamic intensity. The piece functions as a study in endurance and precise control over rapid-fire rhythmic groupings.

Teacher notes

The piece requires extreme finger independence and rhythmic endurance during the relentless moto perpetuo passages.

Technical focus

speed-agilityfinger-independencedramatic-contrastarticulation

Mood

energeticintellectualdramatic

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Blah

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

Browse all Henle level 8 pieces (Concert) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Blah by Frederic Rzewski?

Blah is rated Henle level 8 of 9 — concert repertoire, roughly diploma level. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 10.

What level do I need to play Blah?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 8 — meaning you can already play level 7–8 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 Blah?

A typical performance of Blah lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Blah?

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

What pieces are similar to Blah?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Cadenza con o senza Beethoven by Frederic Rzewski, Ballade No. 5 (It Makes a Long Time Man Feel Bad) by Frederic Rzewski, Ballade No.5 by Frederic Rzewski — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.