3 Morceaux dans le Genre pathétique

Charles-Valentin AlkanOp.15

RomanticWell-knownetude
H9
Henle (estimated)
RCM 9ABRSM 8

About this piece

Charles-Valentin Alkan's '3 Morceaux dans le Genre pathétique' Op.15 are notoriously difficult etudes that explore extreme pianistic challenges. They are characterized by their dramatic intensity and virtuosic demands.

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Teacher notes

The primary challenge lies in mastering the extreme stretches and rapid figuration required for each piece.

Technical focus

speed-agilityleft-hand-independencelarge-chordsarpeggioswide-span

Mood

passionatedramaticenergetic

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Frequently asked questions

How hard is 3 Morceaux dans le Genre pathétique (Op.15) by Charles-Valentin Alkan?

3 Morceaux dans le Genre pathétique (Op.15) is rated Henle level 9 of 9 — virtuoso repertoire, roughly concert / virtuoso level. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 9.

What level do I need to play 3 Morceaux dans le Genre pathétique?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 9 — meaning you can already play level 8–9 pieces cleanly. Learning it one level early is possible as a stretch piece, but more than that usually leads to months of frustration.

Where can I get free sheet music for 3 Morceaux dans le Genre pathétique?

3 Morceaux dans le Genre pathétique (Op.15) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.