This virtuosic work by Chesnokov employs dark, chromatic colors to depict its macabre theme. It is distinguished by its demanding technical writing and intense, brooding atmosphere.
At Henle 7 this is a late-advanced work — the technical demands are serious and sustained. The main demands: big chords that need weight without harshness; octave passages that demand a relaxed wrist to avoid tension; and sharp dynamic and character contrasts held together in one arc.
Beyond that, expect fast passage work that stays light and even at tempo.
The primary challenge is the execution of heavy, fast-paced octave passages and rapid chord shifts.
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.
Dance of Death (Op.9) 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 Dance of Death (Op.9) lasts about 5 minutes.
Dance of Death (Op.9) 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 Pictures at an Exhibition by Modest Mussorgsky, Ballade No.2 by Franz Liszt, Vers la flamme by Alexander Scriabin — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.