Waltz in C-sharp minor, No. 2

Frédéric Chopin

RomanticFamouswaltzC-sharp minorLento3/4~4 min
H5
Henle (estimated)
RCM 8ABRSM 7

About this piece

This waltz is celebrated for its deep melancholy and expressive, aria-like melody that lingers in the memory. It deviates from the typical dance-like character of the waltz form, leaning instead toward a miniature tone poem.

Teacher notes

Mastering the subtle rubato in the melodic phrasing without distorting the underlying waltz pulse is the greatest difficulty.

Technical focus

waltz-rhythmrubatocantabilevoicing

Mood

melancholicnostalgicelegant

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Pieces similar to Waltz in C-sharp minor, No. 2

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

Browse all Henle level 5 pieces (Late intermediate) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Waltz in C-sharp minor, No. 2 by Frédéric Chopin?

Waltz in C-sharp minor, No. 2 is rated Henle level 5 of 9 — late intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 6–7. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 8.

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

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 Waltz in C-sharp minor, No. 2?

A typical performance of Waltz in C-sharp minor, No. 2 lasts about 4 minutes.

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

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

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Waltz in A minor by Frédéric Chopin, Nocturne in C-sharp minor by Frédéric Chopin, Prelude in E minor, No. 4 by Frédéric Chopin — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.