How to Play “Lullaby” by Brahms on Piano (3 Levels, Free)
Learn the famous Lullaby by Brahms on piano: listen to the beginner, easy and intermediate versions, then play the level of your choice with falling notes, right in your browser.
Listen and play: 3 levels
Beginner
Right hand
Easy
Both hands · simple
Intermediate
Both hands · full
About the piece
Lullaby, also known as Wiegenlied, is one of the most recognizable melodies ever written, composed by Johannes Brahms in 1868. Originally composed for voice and piano, it has become a staple for bedtime across the world.
Its calm, flowing tempo makes it a perfect piece for beginners to practice their coordination and touch. The gentle melodic line is ideal for developing a smooth, expressive playing style.
Which level should you choose?
- Right hand only: the beautiful melody alone. Perfect for getting used to the rhythm and notes.
- Both hands, simple: the left hand provides a steady bass note to support the melody.
- Both hands, full chords: the left hand plays harmonic chords that follow the original piano accompaniment style.
Start by focusing on the right hand until you know the melody by heart. Once you can play it smoothly, gradually introduce the left hand patterns.
Fingering and hand position
Place your right hand so your thumb (1) is near middle C. The melody begins with E using your third finger: E E G E E G E G, then C B A A G. After this, the second phrase moves down and then up: D E F D D E F D, leading into the final G B C C C A F.
Keep your hand relaxed and let your fingers follow the falling notes on the screen. Since the piece involves some gentle jumps, keep your wrist loose to transition comfortably between the notes.
Practice tips
- Listen to the full version on the app to get a feel for the gentle tempo.
- Start in Rhythm mode at a very slow speed, around 50%.
- Break the song into small chunks: master the first eight notes before moving to the next section.
- Watch the falling notes carefully and focus on the finger numbers displayed on the keys.
Learn it step by step
The best way to learn Lullaby is to follow a logical progression. Start by playing the right-hand melody alone until your fingers memorize the sequence. Once you are confident, switch on the left-hand part at a slow speed. Practice each phrase until it flows without pauses before combining them into the full, gentle lullaby.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lullaby by Brahms easy to play on piano?
Yes. It is a very accessible piece for beginners, focusing on gentle movement and familiar melodic steps that are easy to follow on the keyboard.
What are the first notes of Lullaby?
The melody starts with E E G E E G E G, followed by C B A A G.
Who composed Lullaby?
Johannes Brahms composed this famous piece in 1868, dedicating it to a friend for the birth of her son.
How long does it take to learn Lullaby on piano?
Most beginners can learn the right-hand melody in one or two practice sessions. Adding the left hand typically takes a few days of consistent practice.
Which fingers should I use for Lullaby?
Position your hand with the thumb on C. You will primarily use fingers 1 through 5 as the melody moves across the range of the C major position.
Can I play Lullaby without a piano?
Yes. You can play it for free on DOLI PIANO using your tablet, computer keyboard, or any connected MIDI keyboard without needing an account.
Do I need to read sheet music to play it?
No. The DOLI PIANO system uses falling notes that indicate exactly which key to press and which finger to use, allowing you to play immediately.
What should I play after Lullaby?
You could try other calm classical pieces or beginner-level melodies like Ode to Joy or simple folk songs that focus on fluid movement.
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