Col. C. G. Child's March

Francis Johnson

RomanticObscuremarchC majorMarch tempo4/4~2 min

About this piece

Francis Johnson was a prolific African-American composer and bandleader in the 19th century. This march is characteristic of the martial, utilitarian style used in American social functions of the era.

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; a left hand with real melodic or rhythmic responsibility of its own; and repeated-note passages that require controlled, springy fingerwork.

Teacher notes

Ensure the left-hand chords remain steady and rhythmic like a military drum pulse.

Technical focus

articulationleft-hand-independencerepeated-notes

Mood

energeticpowerful

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Col. C. G. Child's March

Similar to Col. C. G. Child's March

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 Col. C. G. Child's March by Francis Johnson?

Col. C. G. Child's March 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 Col. C. G. Child's March?

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 Col. C. G. Child's March?

A typical performance of Col. C. G. Child's March lasts about 2 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Col. C. G. Child's March?

Col. C. G. Child's March is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Col. C. G. Child's March?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Bunker Hill by Albert Von Tilzer, Christmas Bells March by Addison P. Wyman, 'Our Leader' March by Frederick Ellsworth Bigelow — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.