Compass No.2

Vasilis RotasOp.22

ModernObscureprelude~3 min

About this piece

A short, characterful piece from a Greek composer, utilizing 20th-century melodic fragments. Its distinctiveness arises from the interplay of traditional forms and modern, slightly angular lines.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 3 this is a late-beginner piece — comfortable hands-together playing is assumed, and musical shaping starts to matter. The main demands: precise articulation — the difference between crisp and blurred is the piece; fine finger independence within the hand; and sharp dynamic and character contrasts held together in one arc.

Teacher notes

Focus on clearly articulating the angular melodic leaps within the piece.

Technical focus

articulationfinger-independencedramatic-contrast

Mood

intellectualenergetic

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Compass No.2

Similar to Compass No.2

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

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.

More Vasilis Rotas, off the beaten path

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

Browse all Henle level 3 pieces (Late beginner) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Compass No.2 (Op.22) by Vasilis Rotas?

Compass No.2 (Op.22) is rated Henle level 3 of 9 — late beginner repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 4–5. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 4.

What level do I need to play Compass No.2?

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 Compass No.2?

A typical performance of Compass No.2 (Op.22) lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Compass No.2?

Compass No.2 (Op.22) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Compass No.2?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Allegro in D major by Johann Philipp Kirnberger, Bob Hada (Schoolspianist246): Invention in D Minor by Robert Thomas Hada, 'Sweelinck!' by Kees Schoonenbeek — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.