A dance-inspired work based on the legendary poetess Clémence Isaure, commonly associated with the traditions of Toulouse. It blends virtuosic elements with the standard sentimental waltz form of the period.
At Henle 4 this is an intermediate piece that expects secure technique and real attention to phrasing. The main demands: a waltz lilt that needs charm and a flexible left hand; sweeping arpeggio figures that must stay smooth across positions; and a true singing tone, with the melody floating above the accompaniment.
The left-hand leaps require careful accuracy and rhythmic consistency.
Comparable difficulty and character — good candidates for what to learn next.
A level or two down with the same spirit — ideal if this piece is still out of reach.
Where this piece's skills lead: slightly harder works making similar technical demands.
Clémence Isaure (Op.123) is rated Henle level 4 of 9 — intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 5–6. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 5.
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.
A typical performance of Clémence Isaure (Op.123) lasts about 5 minutes.
Clémence Isaure (Op.123) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.
Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Waltz No. 2 by Dmitri Shostakovich, Waltz in C-sharp minor, No. 2 by Frédéric Chopin, Waltz in A minor by Frédéric Chopin — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.