How to Play “The Chase” by Burgmüller on Piano (2 Levels, Free)
Learn Burgmüller's The Chase 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
The Chase, or La Chasse, is the fifth piece from Friedrich Burgmüller's 25 Progressive Studies, Op. 100, published in 1851. It is a brilliant and energetic work that captures the excitement of a hunt through rapid arpeggios and driving rhythms.
This piece is a classic challenge for developing pianists, as it requires agility, clarity of touch, and the ability to coordinate quick melodic lines with a steady accompaniment. Its brisk tempo and technical demands make it a perfect study in control and expressive playing.
Which level should you choose?
- Right hand only: focuses on the agile melody and the articulation of the fast passages. Recommended to master the technical flow first.
- Both hands: the complete version featuring the driving rhythm in the left hand. Ideal once you have mastered the right hand solo.
Fingering and hand position
The piece demands a flexible wrist and a light, precise touch. Maintain a stable hand position, but be prepared to shift your hand rapidly as the melodic lines move across the keyboard. Keep your fingers curved and close to the keys to facilitate the quick articulation required.
Practice with a relaxed hand to manage the fast pacing. Focus on maintaining consistent fingering throughout the running passages to ensure accuracy as you increase your speed.
Practice tips
- Listen to the recording multiple times to internalize the rhythmic drive and the tempo.
- Start by playing at a very slow speed, focusing on clean articulation rather than tempo.
- Break the piece down into smaller, manageable phrases rather than attempting the whole piece at once.
- Use the visual cues on the screen to time your finger movements, keeping your focus on the falling notes.
Learn it step by step
Begin by focusing exclusively on the right-hand melody. Practice each phrase individually until you can play it smoothly and without hesitation.
Once the right hand is comfortable, introduce the left-hand rhythm slowly. Ensure both parts are synchronized by using the speed control in the app. Finally, gradually increase the tempo to the full performance speed, always prioritizing clarity over velocity.
Frequently asked questions
Is The Chase easy to play on piano?
It is an intermediate-level piece. It requires solid technical control, especially regarding hand agility and articulation, making it perfect for students looking to advance their skills.
What is the tempo of The Chase?
The piece is written in a fast, energetic tempo that reflects its title. It should be played with spirit and rhythmic precision.
Who composed The Chase?
The piece was composed by the German pianist and composer Friedrich Burgmüller as part of his famous Op. 100 collection.
How long does it take to learn The Chase on piano?
Due to the technical nature of the fast runs, it typically requires consistent daily practice over several weeks to master the phrasing and tempo.
What are the main technical challenges?
The main challenges include maintaining a light touch during rapid passages and ensuring coordination between the hands while sustaining a driving, rhythmic character.
Can I play The Chase without a piano?
Yes. On DOLI PIANO, you can play this piece using your computer keyboard, a tablet, or any MIDI-connected instrument for free and without an account.
Do I need to read sheet music to play it?
No. The DOLI PIANO interface uses falling notes and finger indicators on the keys, allowing you to learn the piece visually and intuitively.
What should I play after The Chase?
Once you have mastered this study, you can explore other pieces from Burgmüller's Op. 100 collection or move on to more advanced works by composers like Clementi or Kuhlau.
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