Dance 23

Clark Kimberling

ModernObscurewaltzE majorModerato3/4~2 min

About this piece

Dance 23 is a short waltz that utilizes standard harmonic progressions in a modern pedagogical context. It serves as an introduction to basic phrasing and pedaling techniques for students.

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: a waltz lilt that needs charm and a flexible left hand; chord voicing — bringing out one note inside a handful of others; and careful pedaling — clarity depends on the foot as much as the fingers.

Teacher notes

Focus on the subtle use of the pedal to connect the harmonic shifts in the waltz pattern.

Technical focus

waltz-rhythmvoicingpedaling

Mood

elegantnostalgic

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Dance 23

Similar to Dance 23

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 Clark Kimberling, off the beaten path

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

Browse all Henle level 3 pieces (Late beginner) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Dance 23 by Clark Kimberling?

Dance 23 is rated Henle level 3 of 9 — late beginner repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 4–5. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 3.

What level do I need to play Dance 23?

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 Dance 23?

A typical performance of Dance 23 lasts about 2 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Dance 23?

Dance 23 is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Dance 23?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Dance 6 by Clark Kimberling, Dance 28 by Clark Kimberling, Dance 29 by Clark Kimberling — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.