Concert-polonaise

Charles MayerOp.238

RomanticObscurepolonaiseModerato3/4~5 min

About this piece

Charles Mayer's Polonaise is a bravura work that features standard 19th-century keyboard figurations. It is distinguished by its grand, heroic gestures and rhythmic drive.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 6 this is an advanced piece that assumes fluent technique and rewards mature interpretation. The main demands: fast passage work that stays light and even at tempo; octave passages that demand a relaxed wrist to avoid tension; and continuous sixteenth-note figuration that must ripple, not chatter.

Beyond that, expect rubato that must breathe naturally without losing the pulse.

Teacher notes

Proficiency in rapid octave passages and stamina in the left hand are essential for this piece.

Technical focus

speed-agilityoctave-runsflowing-sixteenthsrubato

Mood

brilliantpowerful

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Concert-polonaise

Similar to Concert-polonaise

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.

Browse all Henle level 6 pieces (Advanced) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Concert-polonaise (Op.238) by Charles Mayer?

Concert-polonaise (Op.238) is rated Henle level 6 of 9 — advanced repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 7–8. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 9.

What level do I need to play Concert-polonaise?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 6 — meaning you can already play level 5–6 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 Concert-polonaise?

A typical performance of Concert-polonaise (Op.238) lasts about 5 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Concert-polonaise?

Concert-polonaise (Op.238) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Concert-polonaise?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Allegro di Bravura by Charles Mayer, Capriccio brillant by Charles Mayer, Allegro di bravura by Franz Liszt — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.