Etude N°1

Arthur GarnierOp.19

RomanticObscureetude~4 min

About this piece

Arthur Garnier's Op. 19 is a representative example of late-19th-century salon-style etudes. Its distinctiveness lies in its combination of bravura arpeggio figurations and melodic charm.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 5 this is a late-intermediate piece — technically substantial, with musical demands to match. The main demands: sweeping arpeggio figures that must stay smooth across positions; a true singing tone, with the melody floating above the accompaniment; and rubato that must breathe naturally without losing the pulse.

Teacher notes

Balance the dynamic range to ensure the melody projects over the sweeping arpeggios.

Technical focus

arpeggioscantabilerubato

Mood

elegantnostalgic

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Etude N°1

Similar to Etude N°1

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 Etude N°1 (Op.19) by Arthur Garnier?

Etude N°1 (Op.19) 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 Etude N°1?

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 Etude N°1?

A typical performance of Etude N°1 (Op.19) lasts about 4 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Etude N°1?

Etude N°1 (Op.19) is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Etude N°1?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include 16 Waltzes by Johannes Brahms, Waltz No. 2 by Dmitri Shostakovich, Waltz in C-sharp minor, No. 2 by Frédéric Chopin — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.