[Fauré] Lower Difficulty! Recommended Piano Pieces by a Master of French Music

Barcarolle No. 9 in A minor, Op. 101Gabriel Fauré

Fauré Barcarolle No. 9, Op. 101 in A minor — Score with sheet music [Kero]

Set in a 6/8 meter that evokes an elegant undulation, this piece features decorative arpeggios like light reflected on the water and a wistful melody that leaves a strong impression.

As the central theme, placed in the middle register, unfolds through successive variations, it reveals the delicate expression crafted by the refined harmonies characteristic of French music.

Premiered in 1909 at the Salle Érard in Paris, the work—despite its seemingly complex notation—can be performed if practiced carefully at a calm tempo.

It is recommended for those who wish to savor a unique sound world that evokes the transition from the Romantic to the Impressionist era, while cherishing the gentle, wave-like rhythm.

Suite ‘Dolly’ Op. 56 No. 4, Kitty-ValseGabriel Fauré

[Piano Solo Version] Fauré: Suite “Dolly” Kitty-Valse, Op. 56-4 [Arr. Cortot]

Why not try bringing to life a graceful waltz of French music on the piano keys? Written between 1894 and 1896 to celebrate a young girl’s birthday, this elegant piece from a set of six portrays a beloved family dog.

Its lively E-flat major rhythm seems to capture the image of a cute dog bounding about.

Refined harmonies and delicate melodies weave a miniature of about two and a half minutes, wrapped in a warm, homely atmosphere.

With its approachable character that makes piano four-hands especially enjoyable, the piece’s graceful harmonic language—bridging the Romantic and Impressionist styles—offers a full taste of the allure of French music.

Barcarolle No. 12 in E-flat major, Op. 105-2Gabriel Fauré

Gabriel Fauré – Barcarolle No. 12, Op. 106bis

Composed in 1921, this piano piece features a flowing 6/8 rhythm and the warm sonority of E-flat major.

It evokes a gentle lyricism and profound spirituality.

Its graceful melodic lines are interwoven with the refined harmonies characteristic of French music, leaving a pleasant resonance.

While one can enjoy the subtlety of the harmonic progressions and modulations, the piece remains playable with fundamental technique.

It is recommended for those who wish to engage deeply with music in a quiet setting or savor the delicate expressions of French musical style.

It is sometimes selected for music university examinations and competitions, making it valuable from an educational standpoint as well.

Barcarolle No. 4 in E-flat major, Op. 36Gabriel Fauré

Fauré, Nocturne n. 4 in E flat major, op. 36

This is a beautiful work in which warm harmonies and Fauré’s distinctive melodies blend exquisitely within a gently flowing atmosphere.

Published in 1884 by the French publisher Hamelle, the piece was dedicated to his friend, the Countess of Mercy-Argenteau.

The descending perfect fourth that evokes the sound of bells is striking, and the serene mood is superbly fused with lyrical expression.

The middle section introduces a minor-key episode, creating a pronounced contrast with the tranquil opening.

Technically, its relaxed tempo makes it approachable, allowing performers to explore Fauré’s sound world while practicing.

Highly recommended for those who wish to experience the elegance and delicacy of French music.

Suite “Dolly,” Op. 56 No. 2 “Mi-a-ou”Gabriel Fauré

[Piano Solo Version] Fauré: Suite “Dolly” Mi-a-ou, Op. 56-2 [Arr. by Cortot]

This charming piano duet was created as a gift for a young girl.

Composed in June 1894 to celebrate a delightful second birthday, it features a pleasantly waltz-like rhythm and exudes a lively, spirited atmosphere.

Its bright, bouncing melody evokes the innocent laughter and smiles of children, wrapping listeners in a warm, gentle feeling.

While it possesses the elegance and delicacy characteristic of French music, its technical demands are kept modest, making it ideal for piano learners.

It’s a perfect choice for those who wish to enjoy a duet with family or friends, or who want to perform music with a warm, heartfelt character.

Barcarolle No. 10 in A minor, Op. 104-2Gabriel Fauré

Fauré Op.104-2 Barcarolle No.10 in A minor Fauré Barcarolle No.10 with Score Sheet Music [Kero]

This piece is notable for its 6/8 rhythm that ripples smoothly like a water’s surface.

Published in 1913, it unfolds a beautiful melody imbued with deep emotion within the key of A minor.

The shifting, dreamlike harmonies and the delicate interplay of rhythms between the two hands vividly evoke the image of a gondola drifting across the waters of Venice.

While it begins with a gentle character, the music gradually builds in the middle section, growing richer in texture—a compelling structural feature.

For piano learners, it is an ideal work to cultivate nuanced expression while maintaining a fundamental rhythmic pattern.

Highly recommended for those who wish to savor the refined atmosphere characteristic of French music.

Impromptu No. 5 in F-sharp minor, Op. 102Gabriel Fauré

Fauré Impromptu No 5 Opus 102

If you’re looking to tackle an energetic, crowd-pleasing work by Gabriel Fauré, I recommend his Impromptu No.

5 in F-sharp minor, Op.

102.

Written in a minor key and in 2/4 time, it has a remarkably lively character, as its tempo indication suggests.

In terms of difficulty, it sits toward the upper end of the intermediate level.

Since it features continuous sixteenth notes, it also offers excellent practice for those whose fingerwork needs refining.

Be sure to check it out.

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