Dance Thirty

Clark Kimberling

ModernObscure~1.5 min

About this piece

Dance Thirty is a modern miniature composition that utilizes restricted melodic cells common to Kimberling's output. It is characterized by its systematic development of motivic material within a very small formal framework.

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 left hand with real melodic or rhythmic responsibility of its own.

Teacher notes

Focus on evenness of touch and clarity in the interaction between the two hands.

Technical focus

articulationfinger-independenceleft-hand-independence

Mood

elegantprecise

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Dance Thirty

Similar to Dance Thirty

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 2 pieces (Beginner) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Dance Thirty by Clark Kimberling?

Dance Thirty 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 Thirty?

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 Thirty?

A typical performance of Dance Thirty lasts about 1.5 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Dance Thirty?

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

What pieces are similar to Dance Thirty?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Dance 11 by Clark Kimberling, Dance 10 by Clark Kimberling, Dance 6 by Clark Kimberling — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.