Super Mario Bros. Theme

The piece at a glance

Composer

Koji Kondo

Year

1985

Origin

Nintendo Entertainment System

Key

C major

Level

Intermediate

Keys recommended

61

How difficult is it?

The melody is short but leaps in semiquavers and needs a springy rhythm. Simplified versions work well.

The real hurdle

The tempo. The tune only works from a speed at which the leaps become uncomfortable.

How long does it take?

Simplified in two weeks, at original tempo considerably longer.

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; what counts is a fast-responding keyboard.

Instruments that suit it

Casio CDP-S360 EU approx. €450–500
Portable digital piano with Scaled Hammer Action II action.

Yamaha CLP-825 EU approx. €1,350–1,650
Cabinet digital piano with GrandTouch-S action.

Kawai MP7SE EU approx. €1,400–1,550
The 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

If this suits you

Zelda's Lullaby Koji Kondo
The melody millions know from the game – short, calm and ideal as a first game piece.

Pokémon Theme John Siegler, John Loeffler
“Gotta catch ’em all” – the tune millions know by heart before they ever sit at a piano.