Crisis

Pedro Astort Ribas

RomanticObscureimpromptuG minorAndante drammatico4/4~4 min

About this piece

This piece by Pedro Astort Ribas utilizes dramatic shifts in dynamics and mood to reflect its titular tension. It is a compelling example of regional Iberian late-romantic piano music.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 4 this is an intermediate piece that expects secure technique and real attention to phrasing. The main demands: sharp dynamic and character contrasts held together in one arc; chord voicing — bringing out one note inside a handful of others; and rubato that must breathe naturally without losing the pulse.

Teacher notes

Manage the dynamic extremes to create effective tension and release.

Technical focus

dramatic-contrastvoicingrubato

Mood

dramaticmelancholic

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Crisis

Similar to Crisis

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.

More Pedro Astort Ribas, off the beaten path

Lesser-known works by the same hand, at a comparable level.

Browse all Henle level 4 pieces (Intermediate) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Crisis by Pedro Astort Ribas?

Crisis is rated Henle level 4 of 9 — intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 5–6. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 6.

What level do I need to play Crisis?

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.

How long is Crisis?

A typical performance of Crisis lasts about 4 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Crisis?

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

What pieces are similar to Crisis?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Boston-Waltz by Pedro Astort Ribas, Prelude in C-sharp minor, No. 2 by Sergei Rachmaninoff, Passacaglia by George Frideric Handel — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.