Bénédiction et serment

Franz LisztS.396

RomanticSpecialistfantasyA majorAndante4/4~8 min
H8
Henle (estimated)
RCM 10ABRSM 8

About this piece

This piece is a virtuosic piano transcription by Liszt based on themes from Berlioz's opera Benvenuto Cellini. It is distinctive for its complex operatic textures and demanding harmonic elaborations.

Teacher notes

Mastering the wide-span arpeggiated figures and maintaining a singing operatic melody over thick accompanimental textures is essential.

Technical focus

cantabilearpeggioslarge-chordsvoicingdramatic-contrast

Mood

dramaticpassionatepowerful

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

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Frequently asked questions

How hard is Bénédiction et serment (S.396) by Franz Liszt?

Bénédiction et serment (S.396) is rated Henle level 8 of 9 — concert repertoire, roughly diploma level. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 10.

What level do I need to play Bénédiction et serment?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 8 — meaning you can already play level 7–8 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 Bénédiction et serment?

A typical performance of Bénédiction et serment (S.396) lasts about 8 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Bénédiction et serment?

Bénédiction et serment (S.396) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Bénédiction et serment?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Ballade No.2 by Franz Liszt, Cadenza to the first movement of Beethoven's Concerto No.3 by Franz Liszt, Rhapsodie espagnole by Franz Liszt — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.