What to Play After Clair de Lune

Clair de Lune (Henle level 6) is a summit for many pianists — and the view from the top raises the question: now what? These five continue the mood without a brutal difficulty jump.

Five natural successors

  • Debussy — Arabesque No. 1 (level 5–6): the same shimmer, slightly kinder hands.
  • Debussy — La fille aux cheveux de lin (level 5): short, tender, and a masterclass in tone.
  • Ravel — Pavane pour une infante défunte (level 6): stately and heartbreaking; teaches control at slow tempos.
  • Liszt — Consolation No. 3 (level 6): Liszt's gentlest side — long singing lines over flowing accompaniment.
  • Chopin — Nocturne in C minor, Op. 48 No. 1 (level 7): the stretch piece; epic middle section, worth the climb.

See everything at this difficulty on the level 6 page, or browse dreamy & atmospheric pieces if it's the Clair de Lune mood you're chasing.

Building toward level 7 and beyond

From level 6, the healthy path is one stretch piece at level 7 (Fantaisie-Impromptu is the classic choice) alongside two comfortable level-6 works. Levels 7+ demand sustained stamina — étude work (Czerny Op. 299, easier Moszkowski) pays off more here than at any earlier stage.

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Clair de Lune really?

Henle level 6 of 9 — advanced repertoire, roughly ABRSM grade 7–8. The notes are manageable; the difficulty is control: voicing, pedal, and the fast middle section.

Is Arabesque No. 1 easier than Clair de Lune?

Slightly, yes. Arabesque No. 1 sits around Henle level 5–6. The arpeggio textures are similar but the climaxes are less demanding.

What Chopin nocturne comes after Clair de Lune?

Op. 9 No. 2 is easier (level 5) — good if you skipped it. Op. 48 No. 1 or Op. 27 No. 2 (level 7) are the natural next challenges.

Find your next piece by exact difficulty: browse level 6 repertoire →