Berceuse

Theodore AkimenkoOp.15

ModernSpecialistberceuseF-sharp majorLento6/8~4 min
H5
Henle (estimated)
RCM 7ABRSM 6

About this piece

Akimenko was a student of Rimsky-Korsakov and a teacher of Stravinsky, and this Berceuse displays a sophisticated harmonic language. The piece is distinct for its lush, late-Romantic textures infused with early 20th-century Russian introspection.

Teacher notes

Mastering the control of the inner voices within the complex, layered texture is essential for this piece.

Technical focus

cantabilerubatovoicinglayered-texturepedaling

Mood

mysteriousintimatecontemplative

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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 5 pieces (Late intermediate) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Berceuse (Op.15) by Theodore Akimenko?

Berceuse (Op.15) 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?

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?

A typical performance of Berceuse (Op.15) lasts about 4 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Berceuse?

Berceuse (Op.15) 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 By the Fireside by Theodore Akimenko, Au Coin de Feu by Theodore Akimenko, Ballade by Theodore Akimenko — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.