Fairy Tale

Ludvig Schytte

RomanticSpecialistromanceC majorAndante4/4~2 min

About this piece

Ludvig Schytte’s Fairy Tale is a classic example of early-intermediate Romantic pedagogical literature. It is characterized by its accessible, transparent texture and charming, singable melody.

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; precise articulation — the difference between crisp and blurred is the piece; and fine finger independence within the hand.

Teacher notes

Pay close attention to finger independence in the right hand during melodic passages.

Technical focus

cantabilearticulationfinger-independence

Mood

gentlelyrical

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Fairy Tale

Similar to Fairy Tale

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 Fairy Tale by Ludvig Schytte?

Fairy Tale 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 Fairy Tale?

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 Fairy Tale?

A typical performance of Fairy Tale lasts about 2 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Fairy Tale?

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

What pieces are similar to Fairy Tale?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Berceuse Op. 26 No. 7 by Ludvig Schytte, Dandelions by Charles Wakefield Cadman, Ein Wintermärchen by Heinrich Lichner — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.