This work represents the peak of Russian salon waltz composition, combining virtuosic flair with lyrical charm. Its distinctive structure balances exuberant thematic material with moments of graceful, contemplative lyricism.
At Henle 7 this is a late-advanced work — the technical demands are serious and sustained. The main demands: a waltz lilt that needs charm and a flexible left hand; fine finger independence within the hand; and fast passage work that stays light and even at tempo.
Beyond that, expect chord voicing — bringing out one note inside a handful of others, and big chords that need weight without harshness.
At roughly 8 minutes, stamina and memory become part of the challenge — plan practice in sections.
Developing the stamina required to sustain the brilliant, energetic character throughout the entire piece is essential.
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.
Concert Waltz No.2 (Op.51) is rated Henle level 7 of 9 — late advanced repertoire, roughly ABRSM grade 8 and above. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 10.
You should be comfortable at Henle level 7 — meaning you can already play level 6–7 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 Concert Waltz No.2 (Op.51) lasts about 8 minutes.
Concert Waltz No.2 (Op.51) 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 Concert Waltz No. 1 by Alexander Glazunov, 'The King of the Jews' - Incidental Music by Alexander Glazunov, Ballade by Alexander Glazunov — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.