Harrigan (from Fifty Miles From Boston): E-Z Play Today

Cohan's melodic gift shines through in this E-Z Play arrangement; the tune sits comfortably under the hand without sacrificing the character that made it a hit. Students get to inhabit a piece of genuine American theater history while building confidence on accessible material that actually rewards musical phrasing.

Cheerful and unpretentious, with the casual confidence of someone heading down the street with a spring in their step. The Irish inflections in the melody give it a folksy warmth that feels both nostalgic and alive.

Piano students who want to play authentic American material but need an arrangement that doesn't demand advanced technique. Beginning to early intermediate pianists benefit from engaging with Broadway repertoire that has genuine charm rather than padding.

• Keep the tempo bouncy and conversational; this song thrives on forward momentum rather than dragging.
• Shape the phrase endings with slight rubato to let the melody breathe, especially at cadences.
• Balance the accompaniment so the melody stays front and center without effort.

Include this in a concert exploring American popular song, or use it to introduce younger students to the Broadway repertoire that influenced generations of composers. It works equally well as a solo piece or as part of a themed program around early 20th century musical theater.

• Interpreting period style (early Broadway conventions)
• Balancing melody and accompaniment texture
• Phrasing and shaping a singable, accessible melody
• Reading lead sheet style arrangements