Nocturne in F-sharp major, No. 2

Frédéric Chopin

RomanticKnownnocturneF-sharp majorLarghetto2/4~4 min
H7
Henle (estimated)
RCM 9ABRSM 8

About this piece

This nocturne is celebrated for its lush, operatic melody that floats above a delicate, shifting accompaniment. It is distinguished by its intricate coloratura-style ornaments which require a high degree of pianistic refinement.

Teacher notes

Refining the delicate, rapid filigree in the right hand so it remains atmospheric rather than mechanical is essential.

Technical focus

ornamentationcantabilerubatovoicing

Mood

lyricaleleganttender

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Nocturne in F-sharp major, No. 2

Comparable difficulty and character — good candidates for what to learn next.

Browse all Henle level 7 pieces (Late advanced) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Nocturne in F-sharp major, No. 2 by Frédéric Chopin?

Nocturne in F-sharp major, No. 2 is rated Henle level 7 of 9 — late advanced repertoire, roughly ABRSM grade 8 and above. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 9.

What level do I need to play Nocturne in F-sharp major, No. 2?

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 Nocturne in F-sharp major, No. 2?

A typical performance of Nocturne in F-sharp major, No. 2 lasts about 4 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Nocturne in F-sharp major, No. 2?

Nocturne in F-sharp major, No. 2 is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Nocturne in F-sharp major, No. 2?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Ballade No.3 by Frédéric Chopin, Étude in E major, No. 3 by Frédéric Chopin, Barcarolle in F-sharp major by Frédéric Chopin — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.