'Break, break, break'

Alfred Humphries Pease

RomanticObscureromanceE-flat majorAndante4/4~3 min
H4
Henle (estimated)
RCM 6ABRSM 5

About this piece

This is a sentimental parlor-style piano transcription based on Alfred Tennyson's famous poem. It is distinguished by its vocal-like melody and harmonic warmth typical of 19th-century American salon music.

Teacher notes

The primary challenge is maintaining a singing legato tone in the melody while balancing the accompaniment beneath.

Technical focus

cantabilerubatovoicingpedaling

Mood

melancholiclyricaltender

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

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Frequently asked questions

How hard is 'Break, break, break' by Alfred Humphries Pease?

'Break, break, break' is rated Henle level 4 of 9 — intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 5–6. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 6.

What level do I need to play 'Break, break, break'?

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 'Break, break, break'?

A typical performance of 'Break, break, break' lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for 'Break, break, break'?

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

What pieces are similar to 'Break, break, break'?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include 'O, morning star' by Alfred Humphries Pease, 'Red cloud' by Alfred Humphries Pease, 'La Perichole' by Alfred Humphries Pease — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.