City of Stars (La La Land)
The melody that carried the film – calm, plain and without a single hard passage.
The piece at a glance
- Composer
- Justin Hurwitz
- Year
- 2016
- Origin
- Film score for La La Land
- Key
- A major
- Level
- Beginner
- Keys recommended
- 61 are enough
How difficult is it?
Relaxed tempo, plain accompaniment, few leaps – one of the most accessible film melodies of recent years.
The real hurdle
Switching between the vocal melody and the piano part calls for restraint; the piece takes no forte.
How long does it take?
Playable in one to two 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. The piece works on any instrument that can play quietly and cleanly.
Instruments that suit it
Casio CT-S300 EU approx. €160–185Light, sturdy, with a carry handle – the uncomplicated kids’ and second keyboard.
Korg B2 EU approx. €350–440The overlooked fifth player: real hammer action from a heritage maker – often the cheapest serious 88.
Roland RP-107 EU approx. €980–1,100Cabinet digital piano with PHA-4 Standard action.
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 City of Stars (La La Land)?
Relaxed tempo, plain accompaniment, few leaps – one of the most accessible film melodies of recent years.
What key is City of Stars (La La Land) in?
City of Stars (La La Land) is in A major.
How many keys do you need for City of Stars (La La Land)?
An instrument with 61 keys is enough for this piece.
Who composed City of Stars (La La Land)?
Justin Hurwitz, 2016.
Can you download the sheet music for City of Stars (La La Land) 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 City of Stars (La La Land)?
Playable in one to two weeks.
If this suits you
Interstellar – Main Theme Hans ZimmerOrgan textures building over minutes – film music that lives on patience rather than dexterity.
Comptine d'un autre été Yann TiersenAmélie’s theme – eight notes in the left hand, a melody in the right, and unmistakable all the same.