How to Play “Solace” by Joplin on Piano (2 Levels, Free)
Learn Scott Joplin's beautiful ragtime piece Solace on piano: listen to the easy and intermediate versions, then play with falling notes in your browser.
Listen and play: 2 levels
Intermediate
Right hand
Advanced
Both hands
About the piece
Solace, also known as A Mexican Serenade, is a 1909 ragtime composition by Scott Joplin. Unlike his fast-paced, syncopated rags, Solace is a slow, graceful tango that displays a more lyrical and melancholic side of his work.
It is a perfect choice for those who want to explore the expressive depth of early 20th-century American music. Its flowing melody and steady rhythmic structure make it a rewarding piece to play once you have mastered the basics of piano coordination.
Which level should you choose?
- Right hand only: focus on the delicate melody and its expressive timing. Great for practicing phrasing.
- Both hands: the full version that includes the steady, rhythmic bass line characteristic of Joplin's style. Recommended once you are comfortable with the melody.
Fingering and hand position
Solace requires a relaxed hand position. Keep your wrists loose to allow for the gentle movement between melody notes in the right hand. Since the music spans more than one octave, prepare to shift your hand positions smoothly without rushing.
Focus on the balance between your hands: the left hand should maintain a steady, gentle pulse while the right hand sings the melody. Take your time to align your fingers so that each phrase feels natural and connected, rather than disconnected.
Practice tips
- Listen to the recording carefully to understand the lyrical, tango-like rhythm of the piece.
- Start by practicing the right hand alone to memorize the melody shape.
- Use the Rhythm mode to slow the tempo down, ensuring each note is played with precision before increasing speed.
- Pay attention to the falling notes on screen to anticipate shifts in hand position.
- Once the melody is steady, introduce the left hand slowly, phrase by phrase, ensuring both hands stay synchronized.
Learn it step by step
The best approach to learning Solace is to break the piece into small sections. Start with the right-hand melody until you can play it effortlessly. Next, practice the left-hand accompaniment patterns on their own. Once you are comfortable, combine both hands at a very slow tempo. Gradually increase your speed only when you can play the sections without mistakes, focusing on maintaining a fluid and expressive tone throughout.
Frequently asked questions
Is Solace easy to play on piano?
Solace is a moderately challenging piece. While it is more accessible than some of Joplin's faster rags, it requires good hand independence and a steady sense of rhythm.
What is the style of Solace?
Solace is classified as a ragtime tango. It features a slower, more sentimental pace compared to the high-energy syncopated style typically associated with Scott Joplin.
Who composed Solace?
Solace was composed by the American composer and pianist Scott Joplin, known as the King of Ragtime, and was published in 1909.
How long does it take to learn Solace on piano?
Depending on your experience, learning to play the full piece comfortably may take several weeks of consistent, daily practice to master the phrasing and hand coordination.
Do I need to move my hands a lot?
Yes, unlike beginner pieces, Solace requires shifting hand positions across the keyboard to capture the full range of the melody.
Can I play Solace without a piano?
Yes. You can use DOLI PIANO on your tablet, computer keyboard, or any connected MIDI instrument to learn and play this piece for free.
Do I need to read sheet music to play it?
No. The visual guide with falling notes shows you exactly which keys to press in real-time, making it easy to learn even if you do not read traditional notation.
What should I play after Solace?
If you enjoy Joplin, you might try other pieces by him or explore other slow-paced, lyrical works from the early 20th century to further develop your expression.
Try DOLI PIANO for free · Free songs · More questions