Dance of the Saplings

Louis Lavater

RomanticObscureromanceC majorAllegretto4/4~2 min

About this piece

Louis Lavater's piece is a charming parlor-style miniature typical of late 19th-century salon music. It focuses on light textures and simple melodic lines suitable for early-intermediate students.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 2 this is a beginner-level piece, where steady coordination between the hands is the main hurdle. The main demands: precise articulation — the difference between crisp and blurred is the piece; fine finger independence within the hand; and a true singing tone, with the melody floating above the accompaniment.

Teacher notes

Focus on maintaining an even touch during the melodic passages.

Technical focus

articulationfinger-independencecantabile

Mood

gentleplayful

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Dance of the Saplings

Similar to Dance of the Saplings

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 2 pieces (Beginner) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Dance of the Saplings by Louis Lavater?

Dance of the Saplings is rated Henle level 2 of 9 — beginner repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 2–3. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 2.

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

You should be comfortable at Henle level 2 — meaning you can already play level 1–2 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 Saplings?

A typical performance of Dance of the Saplings lasts about 2 minutes.

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

Dance of the Saplings 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 Saplings?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include By Starlight by Louis Lavater, Arroz con leche by Anonymous, 18 German Dances and Esoccaises by Franz Schubert — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.