How to Play “Restlessness” by Burgmüller on Piano (2 Levels, Free)
Learn Burgmüller's Restlessness on piano: listen to the easy and intermediate versions, then play the level of your choice with falling notes, right in your browser.
Listen and play: 2 levels
Intermediate
Right hand
Advanced
Both hands
About the piece
Restlessness is the eighteenth piece from Friedrich Burgmüller's 25 Progressive Pieces, Op. 100, published in 1851. It is a classic romantic work known for its agitated character and rapid, shifting patterns.
This piece is a great choice for developing agility and expression. It requires a light touch and precise finger work to capture the sense of urgency and movement characteristic of the style.
Which level should you choose?
- Right hand only: focus on the fast, flowing melody and the specific articulation required for this expressive piece.
- Both hands: the complete version where the left hand provides the rhythmic foundation and harmonic support for the main melody.
Fingering and hand position
Maintain a flexible wrist to handle the quick shifts between notes. Keep your fingers curved and close to the keys to facilitate the rapid movement required throughout the piece.
Focus on maintaining a consistent hand shape even when moving between positions. Pay close attention to the articulation marks to ensure that each group of notes is crisp and distinct, preserving the overall energy of the composition.
Practice tips
- Listen to the version first, then play it.
- In Rhythm mode, lower the speed to 50% or 75% for the first tries.
- Play the first phrase until it's clean before moving to the next one.
- Look at the screen, not your hands: the finger numbers appear on the keys.
Learn it step by step
Start by practicing the right-hand melody slowly, focusing on evenness and rhythm. Once the notes are secure, begin adding the left hand, first measure by measure at a very reduced speed. Gradually increase the tempo only when the coordination between both hands feels smooth and effortless.
Frequently asked questions
Is Restlessness easy to play on piano?
It is considered an intermediate level piece, requiring good finger independence and steady coordination between both hands.
What are the notes of Restlessness?
The piece is written in E minor and features rapid sixteenth-note patterns that follow various harmonic progressions.
Who composed Restlessness?
It was composed by Friedrich Burgmüller, published in 1851 as part of his 25 Progressive Pieces, Op. 100.
How long does it take to learn Restlessness on piano?
Because of its technical nature, it usually takes several weeks of consistent practice to master the phrasing and tempo.
Which fingers do you use for Restlessness?
The piece requires a full range of fingering, utilizing all fingers to navigate the rapid, shifting melodic lines.
Can I play Restlessness without a piano?
Yes. On DOLI PIANO you can play it with a tablet, your computer keyboard or any MIDI keyboard, for free and without an account.
Do I need to read sheet music to play it?
No. The falling notes show which key to press and when, and the finger numbers appear on the keys. You can learn to read music later.
What should I play after Restlessness?
You could explore other pieces from Burgmüller's Op. 100, such as The Swallow or The Farewell, to continue developing your technique.
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