Misty Mountains (The Hobbit)
A sung song in the film; on the piano a plain melody in minor that lives on calm.
The piece at a glance
- Composer
- Howard Shore
- Year
- 2012
- Origin
- Film score for The Hobbit
- Key
- D minor
- Level
- Beginner
- Keys recommended
- 61 are enough
How difficult is it?
Slow, small range, simple chords. One of the few pieces beginners can play expressively straight away.
The real hurdle
The tempo. The song is almost always played too fast, and then it loses its weight.
How long does it take?
One week.
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?
Works on any instrument. Pedal helps but is not needed.
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 Misty Mountains (The Hobbit)?
Slow, small range, simple chords. One of the few pieces beginners can play expressively straight away.
What key is Misty Mountains (The Hobbit) in?
Misty Mountains (The Hobbit) is in D minor.
How many keys do you need for Misty Mountains (The Hobbit)?
An instrument with 61 keys is enough for this piece.
Who composed Misty Mountains (The Hobbit)?
Howard Shore, 2012.
Can you download the sheet music for Misty Mountains (The Hobbit) 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 Misty Mountains (The Hobbit)?
One week.
If this suits you
Hedwig's Theme (Harry Potter) John WilliamsThe celesta theme everyone recognises after two notes – in triple time, with a left hand that reaches far.
Game of Thrones – Main Theme Ramin DjawadiThe series’ cello theme, surprisingly idiomatic on the piano – a short motif that builds on itself.
In Dreams (The Lord of the Rings) Howard ShoreThe Shire theme: a melody that sounds like home, built from a scale without semitones.