Brise de mer

Georges CouhailacOp.3

RomanticObscureromanceA-flat majorAllegretto6/8~3 min
H3
Henle (estimated)
RCM 5ABRSM 4

About this piece

This is a variant spelling of Couailhac's Op. 3. It utilizes typical 19th-century figurations to create an impression of fluidity and gentle motion.

Teacher notes

Focus on evenness in the sixteenth notes to ensure the 'sea-like' effect remains calm and musical rather than mechanical.

Technical focus

flowing-sixteenthsarpeggioscantabilepedaling

Mood

atmosphericserene

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Brise de mer

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

Browse all Henle level 3 pieces (Late beginner) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Brise de mer (Op.3) by Georges Couhailac?

Brise de mer (Op.3) is rated Henle level 3 of 9 — late beginner repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 4–5. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 5.

What level do I need to play Brise de mer?

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 Brise de mer?

A typical performance of Brise de mer (Op.3) lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Brise de mer?

Brise de mer (Op.3) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Brise de mer?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Berceuse by Armas Järnefelt, By Moonlight by Franz Bendel, By the Lake by Gordon Balch Nevin — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.