Berceuse No.2

Joseph AchronOp.20

ModernObscureberceuseLento6/8~4 min
H5
Henle (estimated)
RCM 7ABRSM 6

About this piece

Joseph Achron, known primarily for his violin works, utilizes a more modern, coloristic harmonic palette in this Berceuse. It is distinguished by its chromaticism and sophisticated textural layering.

Teacher notes

Mastering the subtle shifting of harmonic colors requires advanced control of the damper pedal.

Technical focus

cantabilepedalingvoicingrubato

Mood

atmosphericmysteriousmelancholic

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Berceuse No.2

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

Browse all Henle level 5 pieces (Late intermediate) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Berceuse No.2 (Op.20) by Joseph Achron?

Berceuse No.2 (Op.20) is rated Henle level 5 of 9 — late intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 6–7. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 7.

What level do I need to play Berceuse No.2?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 5 — meaning you can already play level 4–5 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.2?

A typical performance of Berceuse No.2 (Op.20) lasts about 4 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Berceuse No.2?

Berceuse No.2 (Op.20) 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.2?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Gymnopédie No. 1 by Erik Satie, Berceuse élégiaque, BV 252a by Ferruccio Busoni, "Esquisses hebraiques" by Alexander Abramovich Krein — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.