Day Dreams

George Benjamin Allen

RomanticObscurewaltzC majorAndantino3/4~2 min

About this piece

This is a charming, entry-level character piece designed for teaching piano students in the early 20th century. It relies on standard classical chord progressions and a predictable melodic contour.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 3 this is a late-beginner piece — comfortable hands-together playing is assumed, and musical shaping starts to matter. The main demands: a waltz lilt that needs charm and a flexible left hand; precise articulation — the difference between crisp and blurred is the piece; and fine finger independence within the hand.

Teacher notes

Control of the 'oom-pah' waltz accompaniment is the primary requirement for a steady performance.

Technical focus

waltz-rhythmarticulationfinger-independence

Mood

gentleserene

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Day Dreams

Similar to Day Dreams

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 3 pieces (Late beginner) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Day Dreams by George Benjamin Allen?

Day Dreams is rated Henle level 3 of 9 — late beginner repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 4–5. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 2.

What level do I need to play Day Dreams?

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 Day Dreams?

A typical performance of Day Dreams lasts about 2 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Day Dreams?

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

What pieces are similar to Day Dreams?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Andantino in C major by Franz Schubert, Coasting by Cecil Burleigh, Dein Eigen by Gustav Lange — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.