Johann Friedrich Burgmüller (1806–1874) was a German pianist and composer who spent most of his life in France. He is best known for his piano studies (études) that combine technical training with expressive, melodic content — a rare and valuable combination, especially for early-level learners.
Burgmüller’s works are musical miniatures that help students grow as both performers and musicians. His pieces are still used today because they’re not only instructional but beautiful and fun to play.
25 Easy and Progressive Studies Op. 100
Burgmüller’s most popular collection is the Op. 100, titled 25 Easy and Progressive Studies. These are short, expressive pieces that teach one or more technical or musical concepts per piece — but in a way that feels like real music, not just an exercise.
Some standout examples from Op. 100 include:
- Arabesque (No. 2) – A lively and playful piece used often in beginner exams and recitals. It focuses on finger agility and staccato control.
- Innocence (No. 5) – Teaches legato phrasing and balance between hands.
- Progress (No. 6) – Develops strength and coordination in the left hand.
- The Storm (No. 13) – Introduces dramatic dynamics and fast runs.
- Ballade (No. 15) – A deeper, storytelling piece that helps develop musical expression.
Each étude is designed to target a specific technical challenge, such as hand independence, articulation, phrasing, or dynamics — all while sounding like a complete performance piece.
Why They’re Perfect for Beginners and Exams
The Op. 100 studies are frequently featured in ABRSM, RCM, Trinity, and other graded piano exam syllabi — particularly in lower grades.
Here’s why:
- Short and achievable – Usually 1–2 pages long
- Musically engaging – Not just drills; they tell a story or set a mood
- Technically useful – Every piece targets a skill that students need to master at this level
- Excellent preparation for more advanced repertoire
These pieces are popular among students and teachers, as students feel like they’re playing “real” music, while teachers can building essential foundational skills while teaching these pieces.
About Op. 100 No. 2 Arabesque
“Arabesque” is the second piece in Johann Friedrich Burgmüller’s 25 Easy and Progressive Studies, Op. 100. It’s one of the most well-known and loved early intermediate piano pieces, and for good reason. The moment you hear its lively, dancing rhythm and light articulation, you’ll understand why it’s often one of the first “real” classical pieces students fall in love with.
In fact, many of my students mention that playing this piece make them feel happy!
Despite being just over a minute long, “Arabesque” is packed with technical value, musical charm, and learning opportunities for developing pianists.
What Students can learn from Arabesque
- Light, Staccato Touch
- One of the first things students notice is how bouncy and playful the piece feels. This is thanks to the frequent staccato notes, particularly in the right hand, which must be played crisply and evenly.It’s an ideal piece to teach finger independence and hand control — especially for young learners who are developing their fine motor skills.
- Simple Yet Elegant Melody
- The main theme is very singable and melodic, making it easy for students to memorize and enjoy. Despite being technically a study, it doesn’t sound like an exercise — it sounds like music you’d actually want to perform.Teachers often encourage students to “sing the phrase” in their minds to shape it musically, and “Arabesque” is perfect for learning this phrasing skill.
- Hand Coordination and Balance
- The left hand provides a consistent broken chord accompaniment, which needs to be even, soft, and supportive. Meanwhile, the right hand carries the melody.This introduces students to one of the most fundamental piano skills: playing one hand louder than the other(also called voicing or balance between hands).
- Dynamic Control
- While the notes themselves may be accessible, the real musicality comes from the dynamics — crescendos, decrescendos, and carefully shaped phrases.Learning to play with dynamic contrast is what takes “Arabesque” from mechanical to magical.
- Structure and Repetition
- “Arabesque” follows a clear ternary A-B-A structure, which is great for teaching form and musical memory. Students learn not only how to play, but also how to think in musical sections — preparing them for more advanced repertoire later.
Learn “Arabesque” Step-by-Step in Our Membership Portal
Inside our Arabesque course in the membership portal, we guide you through every aspect of this wonderful piece:
- Section-by-section video lessons
- Fingering and articulation tips
- Printable sheet music with annotations
- AND MORE
Whether you want to add a beautiful classical piece to your repertoire or simply want to be cheered up by playing this joyful piece, this tutorials are the go to.
Join us as members now to get access to the step-by-step tutorial on how to play this piece and MORE.