Question 1

How hard is Columbia (Op.34) by Louis Moreau Gottschalk?

Accepted Answer

Columbia (Op.34) is rated Henle level 7 of 9 — late advanced repertoire, roughly ABRSM grade 8 and above. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 9.

Question 2

What level do I need to play Columbia?

Accepted Answer

You should be comfortable at Henle level 7 — meaning you can already play level 6–7 pieces cleanly. Learning it one level early is possible as a stretch piece, but more than that usually leads to months of frustration.

Question 3

How long is Columbia?

Accepted Answer

A typical performance of Columbia (Op.34) lasts about 6 minutes.

Question 4

Where can I get free sheet music for Columbia?

Accepted Answer

Columbia (Op.34) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

Question 5

What pieces are similar to Columbia?

Accepted Answer

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Bamboula by Louis Moreau Gottschalk, Bataille by Louis Moreau Gottschalk, Colliers d'or by Louis Moreau Gottschalk — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.