Dream Faces Waltz

Charles L. Lewis

RomanticObscurewaltzF majorTempo di Valse3/4~3 min

About this piece

This is a parlor waltz characteristic of late 19th-century salon music. It is distinguished by its simple, singable melody supported by a standard oom-pah-pah accompaniment.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 3 this is a late-beginner piece — comfortable hands-together playing is assumed, and musical shaping starts to matter. The main demands: a waltz lilt that needs charm and a flexible left hand; Alberti-bass accompaniment kept quiet and even under the melody; and a true singing tone, with the melody floating above the accompaniment.

Beyond that, expect careful pedaling — clarity depends on the foot as much as the fingers.

Teacher notes

Maintain a consistent and light waltz pulse while balancing the melody against the left-hand chords.

Technical focus

waltz-rhythmalberti-basscantabilepedaling

Mood

lyricalelegantnostalgic

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Dream Faces Waltz

Similar to Dream Faces Waltz

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 3 pieces (Late beginner) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Dream Faces Waltz by Charles L. Lewis?

Dream Faces Waltz is rated Henle level 3 of 9 — late beginner repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 4–5. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 3.

What level do I need to play Dream Faces Waltz?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 3 — meaning you can already play level 2–3 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 Dream Faces Waltz?

A typical performance of Dream Faces Waltz lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Dream Faces Waltz?

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

What pieces are similar to Dream Faces Waltz?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Berceuse by Rudolf Friml, Corsa d'amore by Carlos Gomes, At Twilight by Rudolf Friml — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.