Grieg’s Waltz, Op. 12 No. 2 is a graceful Romantic piano piece from his Lyric Pieces. The music is written in 3/4 time and has the light lift of a waltz, but it also includes expressive pauses, soft dynamic contrasts, and a more delicate character than a large ballroom dance. The left hand keeps the steady waltz motion, while the right hand plays short lyrical phrases, accented triplets, and small melodic turns.

Measures 1–18 introduce the main waltz theme. The left hand begins with a steady bass-and-chord accompaniment, while the right hand enters with a light, expressive melody. Small rests, slurs, and soft dynamics help give the opening a gentle and elegant character.

Measures 19–35 return to the opening idea with slight changes and a fuller ending. The same waltz pattern continues, but the music grows briefly stronger with accented triplet figures and a short ritardando before settling again.

Measures 36–53 move into a contrasting middle section with a new key signature. The melody shifts into the lower voice while the upper hand answers with soft repeated chords. This section feels more mysterious and inward, with several ritardandos and careful dynamic shaping.

Measures 54–70 bring back the original waltz material. The familiar left-hand accompaniment and right-hand melody return softly, then build toward a stronger closing phrase.

Measures 71–79 form the coda. The music becomes quieter and more delicate, marked dolce and later pp. The final measures slow and fade away gently, ending the waltz with a soft, reflective close.

Interesting fact: Grieg’s Lyric Pieces are a collection of short piano works written across many years. They became some of his most beloved piano pieces because they combine simple forms with clear moods, Norwegian color, and expressive Romantic character.