Boum!

Hermand-Brun

ModernObscuretoccata4/4~2 min
H3
Henle (estimated)
RCM 4ABRSM 4

About this piece

This piece is a short, rhythmic character sketch typical of early 20th-century light music. It is notable for its syncopated writing and percussive approach to the keyboard.

Teacher notes

Practice the syncopated passages slowly to achieve precise rhythmic placement.

Technical focus

articulationspeed-agilityvoicing

Mood

energeticplayful

Listen & watch

No video available for this piece.

Your status

Not in your repertoire

Sign in to track this piece

Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Boum!

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 Boum! by Hermand-Brun?

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

What level do I need to play Boum!?

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 Boum!?

A typical performance of Boum! lasts about 2 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Boum!?

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

What pieces are similar to Boum!?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Alexander's Ragtime Band by Irving Berlin, Waltz in D-flat major, No. 1 by Frédéric Chopin, 12 Variations on 'Ah vous dirai-je, Maman' by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.