12 Variations on 'La bergère Célimène'

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

ClassicalKnowntheme-and-variations~12 min
H4
Henle (estimated)
RCM 5

About this piece

Mozart's variations on 'La bergère Célimène' demonstrate his ability to transform a simple melody into a series of delightful and varied musical miniatures. The pieces are characterized by their refined writing and inventive melodic embellishments.

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Teacher notes

Emphasize a singing tone and precise execution of the ornaments to capture the graceful character of the variations.

Technical focus

cantabileornamentationvoicingalberti-bassfinger-independence

Mood

lyricaltenderelegant

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Frequently asked questions

How hard is 12 Variations on 'La bergère Célimène' by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart?

12 Variations on 'La bergère Célimène' is rated Henle level 4 of 9 — intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 5–6. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 5.

What level do I need to play 12 Variations on 'La bergère Célimène'?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 4 — meaning you can already play level 3–4 pieces cleanly. Learning it one level early is possible as a stretch piece, but more than that usually leads to months of frustration.

How long is 12 Variations on 'La bergère Célimène'?

A typical performance of 12 Variations on 'La bergère Célimène' lasts about 12 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for 12 Variations on 'La bergère Célimène'?

12 Variations on 'La bergère Célimène' is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.