Boston

Roderich Bass

RomanticObscurewaltzF majorTempo di Boston2/4~3 min
H3
Henle (estimated)
RCM 3ABRSM 3

About this piece

The 'Boston' was a specific style of slow, gliding waltz that became incredibly popular in the early 20th century. Roderich Bass's piece captures the languid, ballroom aesthetic of the era with a focus on melodic simplicity.

Teacher notes

Focus on a smooth, legato touch to emulate the gliding nature of the Boston dance step.

Technical focus

waltz-rhythmarticulationcantabile

Mood

nostalgicgentle

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Not in your repertoire

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Boston

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 Boston by Roderich Bass?

Boston 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 Boston?

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 Boston?

A typical performance of Boston lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Boston?

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

What pieces are similar to Boston?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Believe Me, If All those Endearing Young Charms by Irish Folk Music, Valse sentimentale, No. 6 by Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Canson pel cabalet by Déodat de Séverac — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.