Prelude in C-sharp minor, No. 2

Sergei Rachmaninoff

RomanticIconicpreludeC-sharp minorLento4/4~5 min
H7
Henle (estimated)
RCM 10ABRSM 8

About this piece

One of the most recognizable piano works in the repertoire, this prelude is defined by its heavy, bell-like opening chords. It features an agitated middle section that requires significant technical power and emotional projection.

Teacher notes

The main challenge is balancing the weight of the massive opening chords with the fleet-fingered demands of the middle 'agitato' section.

Technical focus

large-chordsdramatic-contrastcantabilepedaling

Mood

dramaticmelancholicpowerful

Listen & watch

Your status

Not in your repertoire

Sign in to track this piece

Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Prelude in C-sharp minor, 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 Prelude in C-sharp minor, No. 2 by Sergei Rachmaninoff?

Prelude in C-sharp minor, 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 10.

What level do I need to play Prelude in C-sharp minor, 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 Prelude in C-sharp minor, No. 2?

A typical performance of Prelude in C-sharp minor, No. 2 lasts about 5 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Prelude in C-sharp minor, No. 2?

Prelude in C-sharp minor, 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 Prelude in C-sharp minor, No. 2?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Prelude in G minor, No. 5 by Sergei Rachmaninoff, Canon by Sergei Rachmaninoff, Variations on a Theme of Corelli by Sergei Rachmaninoff — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.