What to Play After Für Elise
Für Elise (Henle level 3) is where most self-taught pianists arrive — and then stall, because the obvious next targets (Clair de Lune, Fantaisie-Impromptu) are three or four levels harder. Here are next steps that actually fit.
Five pieces that follow naturally
- Chopin — Waltz in A minor, B. 150 (level 3–4): your first real Chopin; teaches rubato and left-hand waltz patterns.
- Schumann — Träumerei (level 4): slow but deep — teaches voicing a melody above accompaniment.
- Burgmüller — Arabesque (level 2–3): a quick win; builds fast, light fingerwork.
- Chopin — Prelude in E minor, Op. 28 No. 4 (level 3): minimal notes, maximum expression, great pedal training.
- Beethoven — Sonatina in G major (level 2–3): real classical form without the difficulty spike.
The pattern: stay at Henle level 3–4 and pick pieces that add one new skill each — rubato, voicing, speed, pedaling, or form. Browse everything at this level on the level 3 and level 4 pages.
The mistake to avoid
Jumping straight to Clair de Lune (level 6) or Fantaisie-Impromptu (level 7). Both are years, not months, past Für Elise — starting them now usually means a half-learned piece and lost motivation. Get two or three level-4 pieces solid first; the jump to level 5 will then feel natural.
Frequently asked questions
Is Für Elise beginner or intermediate?
Für Elise is late-beginner repertoire — Henle level 3, roughly ABRSM grade 4–5. The famous A section is easier than the stormy middle episodes, which push it above pure beginner level.
Can I play Clair de Lune after Für Elise?
Not comfortably. Clair de Lune is Henle level 6 — about three levels harder. Most players need one to two years of intermediate repertoire in between.
What Chopin can I play after Für Elise?
Start with the Waltz in A minor B. 150 or the Prelude in E minor Op. 28 No. 4 — both sit at the same difficulty as Für Elise or just above it.
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