Berceuse

Russel Kelso Carter

RomanticObscureberceuseF majorAndante3/4~4 min
H3
Henle (estimated)
RCM 5ABRSM 4

About this piece

Carter's Berceuse exemplifies the Victorian-era parlor piece, characterized by its predictable harmonic structure and sweet, sentimental melody. Its distinctiveness arises from the interplay between a rocking bass figure and a decorative upper register.

Teacher notes

Work on achieving a seamless legato connection in the right-hand melody.

Technical focus

pedalingcantabileleft-hand-independence

Mood

nostalgicgentle

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Your status

Not in your repertoire

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Berceuse

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

Browse all Henle level 3 pieces (Late beginner) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Berceuse by Russel Kelso Carter?

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

What level do I need to play Berceuse?

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 Berceuse?

A typical performance of Berceuse lasts about 4 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Berceuse?

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

What pieces are similar to Berceuse?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Believe Me, If All those Endearing Young Charms by Irish Folk Music, Valse sentimentale, No. 6 by Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Canson pel cabalet by Déodat de Séverac — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.