How to Play “All the Pretty Little Horses” (3 Levels, Free)
Learn the traditional American lullaby All the Pretty Little Horses on piano: listen to the beginner, easy and intermediate versions, then play with falling notes in your browser.
Listen and play: 3 levels
Beginner
Right hand
Easy
Both hands · simple
Intermediate
Both hands · full
About the piece
All the Pretty Little Horses is a traditional American lullaby of unknown origin, first published in the early 20th century. It is a gentle, soothing song often sung to children to help them sleep, featuring imagery of horses and promises of sweet rest.
It is an excellent piece for beginners because the melody is slow and expressive. It centers around a moderate range, allowing you to focus on playing with a soft, legato touch.
Which level should you choose?
- Right hand only: the melody alone, perfect for finding the notes and learning the rhythm.
- Both hands, simple: the left hand adds a steady bass note on the first beat of each measure to establish the rhythm.
- Both hands, full chords: the left hand plays block chords that provide a rich, harmonic support to the lullaby melody.
Start with the right hand to master the sequence of notes, then add the left hand once you feel comfortable with the timing.
Fingering and hand position
Place your right hand so your thumb (1) is near D4. The melody begins on D with your thumb: D A A G F G, then C A# A G F E D D. The hand stays relatively still, but you will need to shift slightly to cover the range from A3 to C5 comfortably.
Pay attention to the transition from the high C to the A# and back down to D. Because this is a lullaby, keep your fingers relaxed and maintain a consistent, flowing tempo.
Practice tips
- Listen to the melody several times before trying to play it.
- Use the Rhythm mode and set the speed to 50% to ensure you are hitting the right notes.
- Focus on one phrase at a time, specifically the part that moves from the high notes down to the lower register.
- Keep your eyes on the falling notes on the screen rather than looking down at your fingers.
Learn it step by step
To learn this piece effectively, start by playing the melody with your right hand alone until you can play it without stopping. Once the melody is smooth, practice the left-hand accompaniment separately.
After you are confident with both hands individually, combine them at a very slow speed. Gradually increase the tempo until you reach the standard pace, keeping the mood calm and gentle throughout the song.
Frequently asked questions
Is All the Pretty Little Horses easy to play on piano?
Yes. It is a great beginner piece because of its slow tempo and straightforward melody that fits well within a standard hand position.
What are the notes of All the Pretty Little Horses?
The melody follows a sequence starting from D, moving up to A and G, and eventually descending through F, E, and D.
Who composed All the Pretty Little Horses?
It is a traditional American lullaby, so no single composer is credited for its creation.
How long does it take to learn All the Pretty Little Horses on piano?
Most beginners can learn the right-hand melody in one or two practice sessions. Adding the accompaniment will take a few more days.
Which fingers do you use for All the Pretty Little Horses?
You should start with your thumb on D and position your hand to reach up to the A and C notes, adjusting gently as the melody moves.
Can I play All the Pretty Little Horses without a piano?
Yes. You can play it for free on DOLI PIANO using your computer keyboard, tablet, or any MIDI device.
Do I need to read sheet music to play it?
No. The falling notes on the screen guide you on which keys to press and when, making it easy to learn without prior musical knowledge.
What should I play after All the Pretty Little Horses?
Try other folk songs or lullabies like Twinkle Twinkle Little Star or simple classical melodies that emphasize steady rhythm.
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