Brazilian Witch-Dancer

Willis Laurence James

ModernObscurecapriceAllegro capriccioso6/8~3 min
H3
Henle (estimated)
RCM 3ABRSM 3

About this piece

This piece utilizes folk-inspired rhythmic motifs to depict a 'witch-dancer' character. It is musically notable for its quirky accents and irregular phrasing that stray from traditional march patterns.

Teacher notes

Precision in the placement of the staccato accents is essential to capture the mischievous character of the work.

Technical focus

finger-independencerepeated-notesarticulation

Mood

mysteriousplayful

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Brazilian Witch-Dancer

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Browse all Henle level 3 pieces (Late beginner) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Brazilian Witch-Dancer by Willis Laurence James?

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

What level do I need to play Brazilian Witch-Dancer?

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 Brazilian Witch-Dancer?

A typical performance of Brazilian Witch-Dancer lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Brazilian Witch-Dancer?

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

What pieces are similar to Brazilian Witch-Dancer?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Black Shadow in the House by Samuel Labrecque, Amor as escondidas by Carlos T. de Carvalho, Black Shadow in the House, CCW2 by Samuel Labrecque — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.