Clocks
The descending quaver figure that identifies Coldplay within two bars.
The piece at a glance
- Composer
- Coldplay
- Year
- 2002
- Origin
- Album A Rush of Blood to the Head
- Key
- E♭ major
- Level
- Intermediate
- Keys recommended
- 61 are enough
How difficult is it?
The figure itself is short, but it runs throughout and shifts rhythmically against the left hand.
The real hurdle
The melody sits against the beat. Counting does not help – only listening does.
How long does it take?
Two to four weeks.
A rule of thumb, not a rule – how fast it goes depends on prior experience and practice time. This level is an assessment, not a measurement: most pieces exist in arrangements ranging from heavily simplified to concert level. The rating refers to the common arrangement.
Which instrument suits it?
61 keys are enough; even touch matters.
Instruments that suit it
Casio CDP-S360 EU approx. €450–500Portable digital piano with Scaled Hammer Action II action.
Yamaha CLP-825 EU approx. €1,350–1,650Cabinet digital piano with GrandTouch-S action.
Kawai MP7SE EU approx. €1,400–1,550The stage all-rounder with Kawai’s RHIII feel – favourite of many pianists with stage jobs.
The catalogue lists 233 instruments with verified data – key count, action and connections documented rather than claimed.
Where to find the sheet music
This piece is under copyright. Sheet music is available only from licensed publishers – free PDFs found online are usually not legal.
Modern editions and arrangements
Simplified versions, modern engraving and arrangements are available from the usual sheet music retailers. We will add direct links here shortly.
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is Clocks?
The figure itself is short, but it runs throughout and shifts rhythmically against the left hand.
What key is Clocks in?
Clocks is in E♭ major.
How many keys do you need for Clocks?
An instrument with 61 keys is enough for this piece.
Who composed Clocks?
Coldplay, 2002.
Can you download the sheet music for Clocks for free?
This piece is under copyright. Sheet music is available only from licensed publishers – free PDFs found online are usually not legal.
How long does it take to learn Clocks?
Two to four weeks.
If this suits you
Creep RadioheadFour chords repeated ninety times – and never boring.
Viva la Vida ColdplayFour chords at marching tempo – one of the most rewarding pop pieces for the left hand.