- Learn Mozart's exotic "Alla Turca" style
- Practice march rhythms and articulation
- Develop energetic, rhythmic playing
About This Song
Composer: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1783)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Notes Used: C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C (high)
Time Signature: 2/4
Key: A Minor
Fingering Review
Full Song
The famous "Rondo Alla Turca" from Mozart's Piano Sonata No. 11. This exotic march imitates Turkish military band music.
Practice Tips
- March character: This should have a strong, military march quality
- Crisp articulation: The sixteenth notes need precise tonguing
- "Alla Turca" style: Mozart was imitating Turkish military music - keep it exotic and energetic
- Rhythmic precision: The alternation of sixteenth and eighth notes must be exact
Practice Exercises
Practice the quick four-note pattern slowly first.
Master the distinctive opening phrase.
Practice the A minor scale pattern.
Practice the rhythmic pattern on one note.
Put together the full opening phrase slowly, then gradually increase tempo.
Historical Context
The Turkish March (Rondo Alla Turca) is the third movement of Mozart's Piano Sonata No. 11 in A Major, K. 331, composed around 1783. During Mozart's time, there was great European fascination with Turkish culture and music, particularly the exotic sounds of Turkish military bands (Janissary music). Mozart incorporated elements like driving rhythms and minor-key melodies to evoke this "Turkish" sound. The piece became one of Mozart's most popular works and remains a favorite for students and concert pianists alike. This simplified version captures the essence of the famous march rhythm.
Next Steps
Once you can play this confidently, try:
- Gradually increasing the tempo toward Mozart's Allegretto
- Adding dynamic accents for extra march character
- Moving on to Chapter 7 to explore international folk songs