Elegy for the Left Hand

Leopold Godowsky

RomanticSpecialistromanceLento4/4~6 min
H7
Henle (estimated)
≈ ABRSM 8 / ARSM≈ RCM 10 – ARCT

About this piece

This is an identical work to the previous entry, representing Godowsky's masterful exploration of limited-hand technique. It is distinguished by its late-Romantic chromaticism and idiomatic writing for the piano keyboard.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 7 this is a late-advanced work — the technical demands are serious and sustained. The main demands: a left hand with real melodic or rhythmic responsibility of its own; a true singing tone, with the melody floating above the accompaniment; and chord voicing — bringing out one note inside a handful of others.

Beyond that, expect big chords that need weight without harshness, and rubato that must breathe naturally without losing the pulse.

Teacher notes

Students must develop extreme flexibility in the left hand to sustain long melodic phrases amidst dense chordal support.

Technical focus

left-hand-independencecantabilevoicinglarge-chordsrubato

Mood

melancholicintimatenarrative

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Elegy for the Left Hand

Similar to Elegy for the Left Hand

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 7 pieces (Late advanced) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Elegy for the Left Hand by Leopold Godowsky?

Elegy for the Left Hand is rated Henle level 7 of 9 — late advanced repertoire, roughly ABRSM grade 8 and above.

What level do I need to play Elegy for the Left Hand?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 7 — meaning you can already play level 6–7 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 Elegy for the Left Hand?

A typical performance of Elegy for the Left Hand lasts about 6 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Elegy for the Left Hand?

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

What pieces are similar to Elegy for the Left Hand?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Elegy for the LH by Leopold Godowsky, Elegie by Leopold Godowsky, Elegy by Leopold Godowsky — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.