Counterpoint Rag is a modern take on the classic ragtime form, injecting contrapuntal complexity into the traditional syncopated style. Its distinguishing feature is the marriage of ragtime wit with academic imitation.
At Henle 4 this is an intermediate piece that expects secure technique and real attention to phrasing. The main demands: fast passage work that stays light and even at tempo; precise articulation — the difference between crisp and blurred is the piece; and a left hand with real melodic or rhythmic responsibility of its own.
Focus on precise syncopation and a steady beat to keep the contrapuntal lines distinct.
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.
Lesser-known works by the same hand, at a comparable level.
Counterpoint Rag (Op.90) is rated Henle level 4 of 9 — intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 5–6. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 5.
You should be comfortable at Henle level 4 — meaning you can already play level 3–4 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 Counterpoint Rag (Op.90) lasts about 3 minutes.
Counterpoint Rag (Op.90) 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 Ciacona in A minor by Dan Ehlert Nielsen, 11 variationer over 'Nå skrider dagen under' by Dan Ehlert Nielsen, 11 variationer over 'Nå skrider dagen under' by Dan Ehlert Nielsen — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.