Berceuse No.1

Toivo Ilmari HannikainenOp.4 No.2

RomanticObscureberceuseAndante6/8~3 min
H4
Henle (estimated)
RCM 5ABRSM 5

About this piece

Often cited under slightly variant names, this composition by Hannikainen is a classic example of the early 20th-century Nordic salon style. It is noted for its clarity and effective use of mid-range register.

Teacher notes

Students should prioritize achieving a beautiful, singing tone quality throughout the melodic register.

Technical focus

pedalingcantabilevoicingrubato

Mood

serenelyricaltender

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Berceuse No.1

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

Browse all Henle level 4 pieces (Intermediate) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Berceuse No.1 (Op.4 No.2) by Toivo Ilmari Hannikainen?

Berceuse No.1 (Op.4 No.2) is rated Henle level 4 of 9 — intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 5–6. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 5.

What level do I need to play Berceuse No.1?

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 Berceuse No.1?

A typical performance of Berceuse No.1 (Op.4 No.2) lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Berceuse No.1?

Berceuse No.1 (Op.4 No.2) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Berceuse No.1?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Nocturne in E-flat major, No. 2 by Frédéric Chopin, Au Matin by Benjamin Louis Paul Godard, Au Matin by Benjamin Louis Paul Godard — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.