Bergamasca, SSWV 560

Samuel Scheidt

BaroqueKnowntheme-and-variationsC major4/4~6 min
H5
Henle (estimated)
RCM 7ABRSM 6

About this piece

This piece is a set of variations on the popular folk tune known as the Bergamasca. It is distinguished by its inventive polyphonic textures and characteristic seventeenth-century keyboard figuration.

Teacher notes

Maintain rhythmic consistency while navigating the complex contrapuntal lines across multiple variations.

Technical focus

counterpointornamentationfinger-independencearticulationflowing-sixteenths

Mood

energeticelegantplayful

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Bergamasca, SSWV 560

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

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Frequently asked questions

How hard is Bergamasca, SSWV 560 by Samuel Scheidt?

Bergamasca, SSWV 560 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 Bergamasca, SSWV 560?

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 Bergamasca, SSWV 560?

A typical performance of Bergamasca, SSWV 560 lasts about 6 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Bergamasca, SSWV 560?

Bergamasca, SSWV 560 is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Bergamasca, SSWV 560?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include 12 Variations on "Ah vous dirais-je, Maman" by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Waltz in D-flat major, No. 1 by Frédéric Chopin, 12 Variations on 'Ah vous dirai-je, Maman' by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.