How to Play “Impromptu Op. 90 No. 4” by Schubert on Piano (2 Levels, Free)
Learn to play Schubert's beautiful Impromptu Op. 90 No. 4 on piano. Follow the falling notes in your browser to master this romantic masterpiece.
Listen and play: 2 levels
Advanced
Right hand
Advanced
Both hands
About the piece
Impromptu Op. 90 No. 4 is one of the most famous pieces for piano composed by Franz Schubert in 1827. It belongs to a set of four impromptus, which are short character pieces that embody the romantic spirit of the early 19th century.
The piece is characterized by its rapid, flowing arpeggios that create a cascading effect. It is a technically demanding work that requires precise finger control and a light touch to achieve its delicate and lyrical quality.
Which level should you choose?
- Right hand only: focus on the intricate patterns and melodic lines played by the right hand. This is the best way to understand the flow of the piece.
- Both hands: master the interaction between the fast arpeggios and the supporting bass line. This requires coordination and a steady rhythm throughout.
Fingering and hand position
Because this piece involves rapid movement, maintain a flexible wrist to prevent tension. Keep your hand relatively flat to allow your fingers to dance across the keys without unnecessary strain.
Practice with a light touch and ensure each note within the arpeggios is articulated clearly. Use the weight of your arm to support the melodic phrases rather than relying solely on finger strength.
Practice tips
- Listen to the recording carefully to understand the intended tempo and phrasing.
- Set the speed to 50% in Rhythm mode to internalize the complex patterns before increasing the tempo.
- Break the piece down into smaller, manageable sections or phrases, perfecting each one before connecting them.
- Keep your eyes on the screen to follow the falling notes and use the visual cues to anticipate the next hand position.
Learn it step by step
Start by learning the right hand melody separately to gain confidence with the finger patterns. Focus on playing slowly and evenly, ensuring that every note is clear.
Once the right hand feels comfortable, introduce the left hand slowly. Practice the coordination between the two hands at a very slow pace, gradually increasing the speed only when you can play the sections without hesitation or errors.
Frequently asked questions
Is Impromptu Op. 90 No. 4 easy to play on piano?
No, this is an advanced piece that requires significant technical skill, particularly regarding finger dexterity and rhythmic consistency.
What are the key features of this piece?
The piece is known for its rolling arpeggios, romantic lyrical themes, and a challenging tempo that demands high levels of piano technique.
Who composed Impromptu Op. 90 No. 4?
It was composed by the Austrian composer Franz Schubert in 1827 as part of a collection of four impromptus.
How long does it take to learn this piece?
Due to its technical difficulty, it may take several weeks or months of consistent practice to master this piece, depending on your current skill level.
Do I need special fingering for the arpeggios?
Yes, proper fingering is essential for the rapid sections. Aim to use smooth transitions to keep your hand position stable as you navigate the keyboard.
Can I play this piece without a piano?
Yes. You can use a computer keyboard, a tablet, or a MIDI keyboard connected to the DOLI PIANO app to practice the notes for free.
Do I need to read sheet music to play it?
Not necessarily. The falling notes on the screen will guide you on which keys to press and when, making it easier to visualize the music.
What should I play after this piece?
Once you have tackled this level of difficulty, you might explore other works by Schubert or move toward other romantic era composers like Chopin.
Try DOLI PIANO for free · Free songs · More questions