Alla polacca in D major, H.217

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach

ClassicalObscurepolonaiseD majorAllegretto3/4~4 min
H5
Henle (estimated)
RCM 6ABRSM 6

About this piece

A sophisticated example of CPE Bach's transition from Baroque to Classical keyboard writing. It utilizes characteristic rhythmic dotted figures and refined melodic ornamentation typical of the Empfindsamkeit style.

Teacher notes

Mastering the specific rhythmic realization of the ornaments within the Polonaise pulse is essential.

Technical focus

ornamentationleft-hand-independencearticulation

Mood

elegantenergetic

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Alla polacca in D major, H.217

Comparable difficulty and character — good candidates for what to learn next.

Browse all Henle level 5 pieces (Late intermediate) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Alla polacca in D major, H.217 by Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach?

Alla polacca in D major, H.217 is rated Henle level 5 of 9 — late intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 6–7. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 6.

What level do I need to play Alla polacca in D major, H.217?

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.

How long is Alla polacca in D major, H.217?

A typical performance of Alla polacca in D major, H.217 lasts about 4 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Alla polacca in D major, H.217?

Alla polacca in D major, H.217 is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Alla polacca in D major, H.217?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include 12 Variations auf die Folie d'Espagne, Wq.118/9 (H.263) by Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, 12 Variations auf die Folie d'Espagne by Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, Solfegetto in C minor, H 220 by Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.