Caprice et Variations

Arthur Kalkbrenner

RomanticObscurecapricevariations~8 min
H5
Henle (estimated)
RCM 7ABRSM 6

About this piece

A standard example of a 19th-century virtuoso display piece designed to showcase the performer's technique through theme and variation. The writing is highly idiomatic to the piano of the era.

Teacher notes

Mastery of voicing within the florid ornamental lines is required for a polished performance.

Technical focus

speed-agilityarpeggiosvoicing

Mood

brilliantelegant

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Caprice et Variations

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 Caprice et Variations by Arthur Kalkbrenner?

Caprice et Variations 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 Caprice et Variations?

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 Caprice et Variations?

A typical performance of Caprice et Variations lasts about 8 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Caprice et Variations?

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

What pieces are similar to Caprice et Variations?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Caprice et Variations by Arthur Kalkbrenner, 'S Wonderful by George Gershwin, Bella Bocca by Emile Waldteufel — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.