Barcarolle

Stephane Ansons

ModernObscurebarcarolleLento6/8~4 min
H4
Henle (estimated)
RCM 6ABRSM 5

About this piece

This contemporary interpretation of the barcarolle uses modern harmonic sensibilities to rethink the traditional Venetian boat song archetype. It is notable for its exploration of deeper, more ambiguous tonal colors.

Teacher notes

Great care must be taken with the balance between the complex inner voices and the main melodic theme.

Technical focus

rubatovoicingcantabilepedaling

Mood

atmosphericmysterious

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Barcarolle

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

Browse all Henle level 4 pieces (Intermediate) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Barcarolle by Stephane Ansons?

Barcarolle is rated Henle level 4 of 9 — intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 5–6. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 6.

What level do I need to play Barcarolle?

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 Barcarolle?

A typical performance of Barcarolle lasts about 4 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Barcarolle?

Barcarolle is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Barcarolle?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Gymnopédie No. 1 by Erik Satie, Gnossienne No. 1 by Erik Satie, Canto Karabalí by Ernesto Lecuona — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.