When is it okay to go up a level?

[nocturneop2]

I'm currently studying level 2 pieces and decided to try learning First Sorrow by Schumann, which is a level 3, but it's very challenging and I haven't even gotten to the hard part. I'm unsure whether I should learn more level 2 pieces to build my technique and repertoire or keep trying to learn this level 3 piece.

[nataliethepianist]

Do you have a teacher? It would be best to ask them. We can't (or at least I can't) tell if you are ready or not if I based it on your technique and comprehension. I would say, keep the piece if you are really up to it, but don't rush on it, and focus more on level 2 pieces. This will help build your technique and understanding and in turn help you with the Schumann.

- Natalie

[pianoplayjl]

You can go up a level when you feel a sense of accomplshment and you feel that you have completed your goal you set for that level.

[coffee_guy]

is first sorrow also known as "first loss"?