Descrente

Arthur Camillo

RomanticObscureromanceF majorModerato2/4~3 min

About this piece

Descrente is a melodic salon piece by the Brazilian composer Arthur Camillo. It captures the sentimental aesthetic common in South American parlor compositions of that era.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 4 this is an intermediate piece that expects secure technique and real attention to phrasing. The main demands: precise articulation — the difference between crisp and blurred is the piece; a true singing tone, with the melody floating above the accompaniment; and a left hand with real melodic or rhythmic responsibility of its own.

Teacher notes

Focus on achieving a singing tone in the right hand against a supportive and rhythmic accompaniment.

Technical focus

articulationcantabileleft-hand-independence

Mood

nostalgicgentle

Listen & watch

No video available for this piece.
Too hard right now? Build a path to it

Your status

Not in your repertoire

Sign in to track this piece

Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Descrente

Similar to Descrente

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 4 pieces (Intermediate) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Descrente by Arthur Camillo?

Descrente is rated Henle level 4 of 9 — intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 5–6. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 3.

What level do I need to play Descrente?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 4 — meaning you can already play level 3–4 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 Descrente?

A typical performance of Descrente lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Descrente?

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

What pieces are similar to Descrente?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Blumenstück Op.19 by Robert Schumann, Bells across the Meadows (Characteristic Intermezzo)) by Albert William Ketèlbey, Valse sentimentale, No. 6 by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.