Schubert's "12 Valses Nobles" D.969 are exquisite examples of the Viennese waltz, infused with his characteristic lyricism and harmonic inventiveness. They showcase a sophisticated blend of elegance, charm, and occasional melancholy.
Achieving a graceful lilt and nuanced dynamic shading within the waltz rhythm is crucial.
12 Valses Nobles (D.969) is rated Henle level 5 of 9 — late intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 6–7. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 7.
You should be comfortable at Henle level 5 — meaning you can already play level 4–5 pieces cleanly. Learning it one level early is possible as a stretch piece, but more than that usually leads to months of frustration.
12 Valses Nobles (D.969) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.