Butterflies Caprice

Charles Leslie Johnson

RomanticObscurecapriceA-flat majorAllegro moderato2/4~3 min
H4
Henle (estimated)
RCM 6ABRSM 5

About this piece

Charles Leslie Johnson was a prolific American composer of popular piano music and rags. This caprice features flowing scalar passages and arpeggiated figures that reflect the salon style popular in the early 1900s.

Teacher notes

The primary challenge lies in the rapid scalar runs and maintaining a fluid, even tempo throughout the decorative sections.

Technical focus

speed-agilityarpeggiosflowing-sixteenthsrubato

Mood

brilliantelegant

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Butterflies Caprice

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Browse all Henle level 4 pieces (Intermediate) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Butterflies Caprice by Charles Leslie Johnson?

Butterflies Caprice is rated Henle level 4 of 9 — intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 5–6. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 6.

What level do I need to play Butterflies Caprice?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 4 — meaning you can already play level 3–4 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 Butterflies Caprice?

A typical performance of Butterflies Caprice lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Butterflies Caprice?

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

What pieces are similar to Butterflies Caprice?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Belle of Havana Waltzes by Charles Leslie Johnson, Blue Goose Rag by Charles Leslie Johnson, Butterflies by Charles Leslie Johnson — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.