Cock-a-doo-dle-do

George McCullough

ModernObscurehumoresqueC majorVivace4/4~1 min

About this piece

This is a programmatic miniature designed to evoke the sounds of a farm, likely for younger students. It is distinguished by its direct, imitation-based writing and simplistic melodic contours.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 2 this is a beginner-level piece, where steady coordination between the hands is the main hurdle. The main demands: precise articulation — the difference between crisp and blurred is the piece; fine finger independence within the hand; and repeated-note passages that require controlled, springy fingerwork.

Teacher notes

The technical challenge lies in the crisp and consistent articulation of the repeated note passages.

Technical focus

articulationfinger-independencerepeated-notes

Mood

playfulenergetic

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Cock-a-doo-dle-do

Similar to Cock-a-doo-dle-do

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

Easier, same character

A level or two down with the same spirit — ideal if this piece is still out of reach.

The next step up

Where this piece's skills lead: slightly harder works making similar technical demands.

Browse all Henle level 2 pieces (Beginner) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Cock-a-doo-dle-do by George McCullough?

Cock-a-doo-dle-do is rated Henle level 2 of 9 — beginner repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 2–3. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 2.

What level do I need to play Cock-a-doo-dle-do?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 2 — meaning you can already play level 1–2 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 Cock-a-doo-dle-do?

A typical performance of Cock-a-doo-dle-do lasts about 1 minute.

Where can I get free sheet music for Cock-a-doo-dle-do?

Cock-a-doo-dle-do is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Cock-a-doo-dle-do?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Blumenwalzer by Léon Jessel, Bluin' the Blues by Henry Ragas, Au moulin by Ernest Gillet — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.