Citrus Color No.3

Michio AramakiOp.85

ModernObscureprelude4/4~3 min

About this piece

The final piece in the set, this work introduces more complex, widely-spaced chords that require sensitive hand control. Its distinctiveness lies in the ambiguous tonal centers and fluid harmonic movement.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 5 this is a late-intermediate piece — technically substantial, with musical demands to match. The main demands: chord voicing — bringing out one note inside a handful of others; wide stretches that reward larger hands and clever redistribution; and rubato that must breathe naturally without losing the pulse.

Teacher notes

Practice the wide-span chords with a relaxed wrist to ensure even tone across the registers.

Technical focus

voicingwide-spanrubato

Mood

atmosphericmysterious

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Citrus Color No.3

Similar to Citrus Color No.3

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Easier, same character

A level or two down with the same spirit — ideal if this piece is still out of reach.

The next step up

Where this piece's skills lead: slightly harder works making similar technical demands.

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Lesser-known works by the same hand, at a comparable level.

Browse all Henle level 5 pieces (Late intermediate) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Citrus Color No.3 (Op.85) by Michio Aramaki?

Citrus Color No.3 (Op.85) 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 Citrus Color No.3?

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 Citrus Color No.3?

A typical performance of Citrus Color No.3 (Op.85) lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Citrus Color No.3?

Citrus Color No.3 (Op.85) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Citrus Color No.3?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Citrus Color No.2 by Michio Aramaki, Citrus Color No.1 by Michio Aramaki, Blue Waking by Michio Aramaki — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.