Conception No. 2 'Ostinato'

Michel Allard

ModernObscureetudeC minorAllegro4/4~2 min

About this piece

This piece is a contemporary etude by Michel Allard focused on consistent rhythmic drive. It distinguishes itself through its insistent ostinato pattern that requires precise timing and dynamic control.

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: repeated-note passages that require controlled, springy fingerwork; a left hand with real melodic or rhythmic responsibility of its own; and precise articulation — the difference between crisp and blurred is the piece.

Teacher notes

The primary challenge is maintaining a perfectly even tempo while managing the repeated-note textures.

Technical focus

repeated-notesleft-hand-independencearticulation

Mood

energeticdramatic

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Conception No. 2 'Ostinato'

Similar to Conception No. 2 'Ostinato'

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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.

More Michel Allard, 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 Conception No. 2 'Ostinato' by Michel Allard?

Conception No. 2 'Ostinato' 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 Conception No. 2 'Ostinato'?

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 Conception No. 2 'Ostinato'?

A typical performance of Conception No. 2 'Ostinato' lasts about 2 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Conception No. 2 'Ostinato'?

Conception No. 2 'Ostinato' is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Conception No. 2 'Ostinato'?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Conception No. 6 'Terra' by Michel Allard, 12 Little Preludes-Excursion by Michel Allard, Conception No.3 'Pop' by Michel Allard — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.