Dance

Andrew Violette

ModernObscure~4 min

About this piece

Andrew Violette's 'Dance' exhibits a complex harmonic language typical of his experimental approach to piano composition. It is distinctive for its use of unconventional rhythmic patterns and dynamic shifts.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 5 this is a late-intermediate piece — technically substantial, with musical demands to match. The main demands: polyrhythms that have to lock together without sounding mechanical; big chords that need weight without harshness; and sharp dynamic and character contrasts held together in one arc.

Teacher notes

Master the complex coordination between hands in the polyrhythmic sections.

Technical focus

polyrhythmlarge-chordsdramatic-contrast

Mood

dramaticpowerful

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Dance

Similar to Dance

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 by Andrew Violette?

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

What level do I need to play Dance?

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?

A typical performance of Dance lasts about 4 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Dance?

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

What pieces are similar to Dance?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Black Tea by Andrew Violette, Passacaglia by George Frideric Handel, Ballade by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.