Allegretto con variazioni, H.65

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach

ClassicalSpecialisttheme-and-variationsC majorAllegretto2/4~4 min
H3
Henle (estimated)
RCM 4ABRSM 4

About this piece

This piece is a charming set of variations by C.P.E. Bach showcasing the transition from Baroque to Classical keyboard style. It is distinctive for its galant sensibility and idiomatic use of keyboard ornaments.

Teacher notes

Students must master the crisp articulation and the specific execution of the 18th-century appoggiaturas.

Technical focus

ornamentationarticulationfinger-independenceflowing-sixteenths

Mood

elegantplayful

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Allegretto con variazioni, H.65

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Browse all Henle level 3 pieces (Late beginner) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Allegretto con variazioni, H.65 by Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach?

Allegretto con variazioni, H.65 is rated Henle level 3 of 9 — late beginner repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 4–5. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 4.

What level do I need to play Allegretto con variazioni, H.65?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 3 — meaning you can already play level 2–3 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 Allegretto con variazioni, H.65?

A typical performance of Allegretto con variazioni, H.65 lasts about 4 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Allegretto con variazioni, H.65?

Allegretto con variazioni, H.65 is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Allegretto con variazioni, H.65?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Canzonetta con 6 Variazioni, H.275 by Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, 12 Variations on 'Colin a peine à seize ans', H.226 by Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, Allegro in A major by Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.