Description: “The Checkerberry Rag” is an upbeat ragtime with a country flair! It sounds harder to play than it really is. Written in three keys, the melody is transposed as well as developed throughout the piece, incorporating staccato as well as legato touch.

Purpose: *Improve finger dexterity

*Practice in the art of phrasing/staccato

*Increase ability to maintain a steady tempo

Suggestions for Instruction: The student should begin by identifying the key signatures. Practicing hands separately will aid in learning to switch between legato phrasing and staccato notes. Don't be in a hurry to play up to tempo. Slow, careful practice is the path to beautiful mistake-free performances.

Key: C Major

Publisher: Willis Music
Series: Willis
Piano Level: Late Elementary
Pages: 4
Credits: Kathy Sullivan Later Elementary Level
Composer(s): Kathy Sullivan