How to Play “Bethena” by Joplin on Piano (2 Levels, Free)
Learn the elegant Bethena waltz by Scott Joplin on piano: listen to the simple and advanced versions, then play the level of your choice with falling notes, right in your browser.
Listen and play: 2 levels
Advanced
Right hand
Advanced
Both hands
About the piece
Bethena is a concert waltz composed by Scott Joplin in 1905. While Joplin is best known for his ragtime compositions, Bethena is considered one of his finest works, showcasing a lyrical and sophisticated style that combines the syncopation of ragtime with the graceful triple meter of the classical waltz.
It is a beautiful piece that requires a delicate touch and a good sense of rhythm. Because it is a more advanced work, it provides a rewarding challenge for those looking to expand their repertoire beyond simple melodies.
Which level should you choose?
- Right hand only: focuses on the melodic line and the complex phrasing of the waltz. Essential for internalizing the syncopated rhythms.
- Both hands: the complete arrangement, combining the melody with the characteristic oom-pah-pah waltz accompaniment in the left hand.
Fingering and hand position
The waltz rhythm requires a light touch on the bass note followed by a softer pulse for the accompanying chords. Since this piece spans a wide range, your hands will need to shift positions frequently.
Keep your wrists flexible to handle the subtle dynamic changes. Focus on playing the melody legato to allow the phrasing to flow naturally, while keeping the left-hand chords crisp and rhythmic to maintain the dance-like quality of the waltz.
Practice tips
- Listen to the full piece multiple times to understand the flow before attempting to play.
- Start by practicing the right hand alone at a very slow tempo until the rhythmic patterns feel natural.
- Use the speed control in the app to reduce the tempo to 50% for your initial practice sessions.
- Once the melody is secure, integrate the left hand one phrase at a time, ensuring that the notes align perfectly with the beat.
Learn it step by step
Begin by isolating the main melodic themes. Master the right hand first, paying close attention to the syncopations that characterize Joplin's style. Once you are comfortable with the melody, add the left hand accompaniment slowly.
Practice in small segments of two to four bars. Focus on transitioning smoothly between hand positions and gradually increase your speed only when you can play the section without errors.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bethena easy to play on piano?
Bethena is considered an advanced piece due to its syncopated rhythms and melodic complexity. It is best suited for players who have already mastered basic rhythm and hand coordination.
What is the style of Bethena?
Bethena is a concert waltz. It blends the structural elegance of a traditional waltz with the syncopated, expressive harmonic language typical of Scott Joplin's ragtime.
Who composed Bethena?
The piece was composed by the American musician Scott Joplin in 1905.
How long does it take to learn Bethena on piano?
Due to its advanced difficulty, learning Bethena effectively takes significant time and consistent daily practice, often ranging from several weeks to months depending on your experience level.
Do I need special hand positions for this piece?
Yes, unlike simpler pieces, Bethena requires frequent lateral movement of the hands to cover its wide range and various chordal structures.
Can I play Bethena without a piano?
Yes. You can play it for free on the DOLI PIANO web app using your tablet, computer keyboard, or any connected MIDI keyboard.
Is reading sheet music required to play it?
No. The DOLI PIANO interface uses falling notes that indicate exactly which keys to press and when, allowing you to learn the piece visually.
What should I play after Bethena?
If you enjoy the waltz style, you might explore other classical waltzes or delve further into Joplin's ragtime repertoire, such as The Entertainer or Maple Leaf Rag.
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