Exercice pour le Pianoforte

Robert Schumann

RomanticKnownetudeC majorAllegro4/4~2 min
H9
Henle level
ABRSM 5RCM 6

About this piece

This is an early study by Schumann that serves as a precursor to his later technical explorations. The piece is defined by its rapid, running passages that demand equality between both hands.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 9 this is among the most demanding works in the piano literature. The main demands: a left hand with real melodic or rhythmic responsibility of its own; sweeping arpeggio figures that must stay smooth across positions; and continuous sixteenth-note figuration that must ripple, not chatter.

Teacher notes

Develop steady, even sixteenth notes across both hands to ensure a balanced, continuous line.

Technical focus

left-hand-independencearpeggiosflowing-sixteenths

Mood

energeticbrilliant

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Exercice pour le Pianoforte

Similar to Exercice pour le Pianoforte

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.

Browse all Henle level 9 pieces (Virtuoso) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Exercice pour le Pianoforte by Robert Schumann?

Exercice pour le Pianoforte is rated Henle level 9 of 9 — virtuoso repertoire, roughly concert / virtuoso level. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 6.

What level do I need to play Exercice pour le Pianoforte?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 9 — meaning you can already play level 8–9 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 Exercice pour le Pianoforte?

A typical performance of Exercice pour le Pianoforte lasts about 2 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Exercice pour le Pianoforte?

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

What pieces are similar to Exercice pour le Pianoforte?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 in C-sharp minor by Franz Liszt, Rhapsody in Blue (Solo Piano) by George Gershwin, La campanella by Franz Liszt — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.