Dreaming

Ellis Daly

RomanticObscureromance~2 min

About this piece

Ellis Daly's work is an obscure character piece that mimics the sentimental salon style common in Victorian-era home music-making. The piece is highly formulaic, relying on standard broken chord patterns.

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: a true singing tone, with the melody floating above the accompaniment, and careful pedaling — clarity depends on the foot as much as the fingers.

Teacher notes

The challenge lies in avoiding a static performance by applying subtle rubato to the phrases.

Technical focus

cantabilepedaling

Mood

nostalgicgentle

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Dreaming

Similar to Dreaming

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 Dreaming by Ellis Daly?

Dreaming 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 Dreaming?

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 Dreaming?

A typical performance of Dreaming lasts about 2 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Dreaming?

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

What pieces are similar to Dreaming?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Die Mühle im Schwarzwald by Richard Eilenberg, Dandelions by Charles Wakefield Cadman, Canson pel cabalet by Déodat de Séverac — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.