How to Play “Raindrop” Prelude by Chopin on Piano (2 Levels, Free)

Listen and play: 2 levels

About the piece

The Prelude Op. 28 No. 15, commonly known as the Raindrop Prelude, is one of the most famous works by Frederic Chopin. Composed in 1838, it is renowned for its haunting, atmospheric melody and the persistent, repetitive note that recurs throughout the piece like the sound of raindrops hitting a roof.

While the original composition is technically demanding and emotionally complex, it remains a pillar of the romantic piano repertoire. Its distinctive rhythm and lyrical expression make it a rewarding challenge for pianists looking to explore the depth of 19th-century music.

Which level should you choose?

• Right hand only: focuses on the beautiful, flowing melody, allowing you to practice the phrasing and dynamics without the complexity of the full accompaniment.
• Both hands: includes the persistent raindrop motif and the left-hand chords, providing the complete texture and emotional weight intended by the composer.

We recommend starting with the right-hand melody to internalize the emotional arc of the music before attempting to coordinate both hands with the steady underlying rhythm.

Fingering and hand position

Due to the expressive nature of this piece, maintain a relaxed hand position to allow for smooth transitions between long, flowing lines. Keep your fingers curved and flexible, ensuring that the repetitive note—which acts as the raindrop—remains consistent in volume without overwhelming the melody.

Use your thumb and fingers to navigate the chordal shifts in the left hand carefully. Focus on maintaining a legato touch in the melody, letting the notes connect seamlessly, while providing a clear and rhythmic pulse with the lower register.

Practice tips

• Listen to the full version in the app to capture the mood and tempo of the piece before you begin.
• Use the Rhythm mode to slow the tempo down, ensuring you can hit every note cleanly before increasing speed.
• Break the piece down into smaller phrases rather than trying to play the entire work at once.
• Focus on keeping your wrists soft, as the emotional intensity of this piece depends on a fluid, non-percussive touch.

Learn it step by step

Start by learning the melody in the right hand alone, ensuring you understand the rhythmic placement of the notes. Once the melody is comfortable, move to the left hand to practice the steady pulse that forms the backbone of the work.

After mastering each hand separately, combine them at a very slow pace. Focus on synchronizing the melody with the raindrop motif, ensuring that the two parts move together smoothly without rushing. Gradually increase your speed only when you can play the sections without hesitation.

Frequently asked questions