Dance of the Amazon

Anatoly LyadovOp.65

RomanticSpecialisttarantellaA minorAllegro vivo6/8~4 min

About this piece

An alternate spelling/reference for the same virtuosic work by Liadov, characterized by its high-energy rhythmic pulse. It represents a significant display of Russian Romantic keyboard writing.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 5 this is a late-intermediate piece — technically substantial, with musical demands to match. The main demands: fast passage work that stays light and even at tempo; continuous sixteenth-note figuration that must ripple, not chatter; and precise articulation — the difference between crisp and blurred is the piece.

Beyond that, expect sharp dynamic and character contrasts held together in one arc.

Teacher notes

Focus on the stamina required for the continuous sixteenth-note motion in the right hand.

Technical focus

speed-agilityflowing-sixteenthsarticulationdramatic-contrast

Mood

dramaticenergeticbrilliant

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Dance of the Amazon

Similar to Dance of the Amazon

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 5 pieces (Late intermediate) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Dance of the Amazon (Op.65) by Anatoly Lyadov?

Dance of the Amazon (Op.65) is rated Henle level 5 of 9 — late intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 6–7. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 8.

What level do I need to play Dance of the Amazon?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 5 — meaning you can already play level 4–5 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 of the Amazon?

A typical performance of Dance of the Amazon (Op.65) lasts about 4 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Dance of the Amazon?

Dance of the Amazon (Op.65) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Dance of the Amazon?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Dance of the Mosquito by Anatoly Lyadov, Barcarolle by Anatoly Lyadov, Alla Tarantella by Jean Louis Nicodé — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.