Cotillon

Maria Agata Szymanowska

RomanticObscuresuiteA majorAndante2/4~3 min

About this piece

Szymanowska was a pioneering Polish pianist, and her Cotillon reflects the refined, early-Romantic style of the Warsaw salons. It is characterized by delicate ornamentation and graceful melodic 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: ornaments that need to sound effortless, not squeezed in; a true singing tone, with the melody floating above the accompaniment; and a waltz lilt that needs charm and a flexible left hand.

Teacher notes

Pay close attention to the stylistic execution of the delicate turn and trill ornaments.

Technical focus

ornamentationcantabilewaltz-rhythm

Mood

elegantnostalgic

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Cotillon

Similar to Cotillon

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 3 pieces (Late beginner) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Cotillon by Maria Agata Szymanowska?

Cotillon is rated Henle level 3 of 9 — late beginner repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 4–5. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 5.

What level do I need to play Cotillon?

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 Cotillon?

A typical performance of Cotillon lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Cotillon?

Cotillon is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Cotillon?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Waltz in A minor by Frédéric Chopin, Amapola by Joseph M. Lacalle, Bells across the Meadows (Characteristic Intermezzo)) by Albert William Ketèlbey — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.