Fantaisie-Impromptu
Four notes in the right hand against three in the left – the most famous example of this cross-rhythm, and the reason the piece seems so hard.
The piece at a glance
- Composer
- Frédéric Chopin
- Year
- 1834
- Origin
- Op. 66
- Key
- C# minor
- Level
- Advanced
- Keys recommended
- 88
How difficult is it?
The polyrhythm is the hurdle. Technically the runs lie well, but four against three has to sit.
The real hurdle
Do not calculate four against three, learn it as a movement. Both hands slowly together until the feel arrives.
How long does it take?
Three to six months.
A rule of thumb, not a rule – how fast it goes depends on prior experience and practice time. This level is an assessment, not a measurement: most pieces exist in arrangements ranging from heavily simplified to concert level. The rating refers to the common arrangement.
Which instrument suits it?
Full keyboard and an even action. The middle section needs decay.
Instruments that suit it
Roland FP-E50 EU approx. €690–780Portable digital piano with PHA-4 Standard action.
Yamaha Clavinova CLP-845 EU approx. €2,200–2,600The Clavinova upper class: GrandTouch-S action with wooden keys – CFX plus Bösendorfer Imperial on board.
Kawai MP11SE EU approx. €2,200–2,350Stage piano with Grand Feel action.
The catalogue lists 233 instruments with verified data – key count, action and connections documented rather than claimed.
Where to find the sheet music
The work is in the public domain: the term of protection – 70 years after the composer’s death – has expired. Note that a modern engraving or a new arrangement can still be protected. What is free are the old editions, not automatically every version.
Free: the historical editions
IMSLP holds the old, public-domain editions as PDFs – free and legal. Engraving and fingering reflect their era; anyone wanting a modern, easily readable edition is often better served by a paid one.
Modern editions and arrangements
Simplified versions, modern engraving and arrangements are available from the usual sheet music retailers. We will add direct links here shortly.
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is Fantaisie-Impromptu?
The polyrhythm is the hurdle. Technically the runs lie well, but four against three has to sit.
What key is Fantaisie-Impromptu in?
Fantaisie-Impromptu is in C# minor.
How many keys do you need for Fantaisie-Impromptu?
88 keys are recommended.
Who composed Fantaisie-Impromptu?
Frédéric Chopin, 1834.
Can you download the sheet music for Fantaisie-Impromptu for free?
The work is in the public domain: the term of protection – 70 years after the composer’s death – has expired. Note that a modern engraving or a new arrangement can still be protected. What is free are the old editions, not automatically every version.
How long does it take to learn Fantaisie-Impromptu?
Three to six months.
If this suits you
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