Recommended classical masterpieces for autumn
Introducing recommended classical masterpieces that evoke the feeling of autumn!
There are many works in classical music that take the four seasons as their theme.
This time, we’ve picked pieces ranging from those that explicitly focus on “autumn” to those that simply evoke an autumnal mood.
From darker tones to brighter ones, we’ve selected a variety of styles, so you’re sure to find a piece that matches your preferred atmosphere!
We’re also sharing episodes and fun little facts, so if you love classical music, be sure to read to the end!
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Classic masterpieces recommended for autumn (21–30)
The TypewriterLeroy Anderson
It’s a famous piece by Leroy Anderson that’s delightful for its light, comical mood—and it even uses a typewriter as a musical instrument.
Younger listeners might not be familiar with typewriters, but some may have first learned about them, and the profession of typist, through the 2012 French film Populaire.
The rhythmic tapping of the typewriter keys intertwines exquisitely with the orchestral sound, making for a truly entertaining effect.
Spending an autumn of the arts with unconventional classics like this has a special charm, doesn’t it?
The Planets (suite)Gustav Holst
When you think of Holst, “Jupiter” immediately comes to mind, but it’s actually part of a suite—one of seven movements.
While “Jupiter” is by far the most famous, the other pieces are also wonderful, each perfectly capturing the character of its planet.
Arranged versions with Japanese lyrics are nice too, but it’s best to savor the original orchestral performance.
Symphony No. 9, From the New World, Fourth MovementAntonín Dvořák
There are probably very few people who are hearing this stirring melody for the first time.
It is one of the signature works composed in 1893 by Antonín Dvořák, a leading Czech composer who belongs to the later period of what is commonly called the Romantic era.
Representative of his American period and also his final symphony, this piece is, as mentioned at the outset, so famous that even those not well-versed in classical music are likely to know it.
While it follows a classical structure, its unforgettable, instantly appealing melody has made it a popular choice as background music in a variety of settings.
As we head into the autumn arts season, why not take your first steps into the world of classical music with this piece, even if you’re a beginner?
Peter and the WolfSergei Prokofiev
Known in Japan under the title “Peter and the Wolf,” this work is a musical piece composed for children by the Russian composer and pianist Sergei Prokofiev.
It combines narration with a small orchestra, with each animal in the story represented by a specific instrument.
In Japan, various narrators have performed it, and sometimes a uniquely Japanese narration is added that differs from the original version.
Many people likely remember hearing it in their childhood.
In 1946, the Walt Disney Company produced an animated film based on the piece.
If you have young children at home, why not spend an autumn becoming familiar with classical music through this work?
Viola Concerto in G majorGeorg Philipp Telemann
For those who aren’t very familiar, it can be hard to tell the difference between a violin and a viola.
In terms of appearance, the viola is one size larger than the violin, and in terms of sound, it produces a slightly lower pitch compared to the violin.
It often plays a supporting role that brings out the colors of the surrounding instruments, so it may not be considered the star of the orchestra, but there are certainly pieces written with the viola as a solo instrument.
The Viola Concerto in G major introduced here was composed by Georg Philipp Telemann, a leading figure of the late Baroque era, and is one of the most famous viola concertos.
Discovering the unique charm of the viola—distinct from the violin—sounds like a refined way to enjoy the artsy autumn season, doesn’t it?
BoleroMaurice Ravel
When you hear the extraordinarily famous melody that forms the theme of this piece, doesn’t everyone think, “Ah, that one”? Originally composed as a ballet in 1928 by Maurice Ravel, it has long been cherished beyond the confines of the ballet and dance world as one of the great classics.
Throughout, the same rhythm is maintained and two types of melodies are repeated—a simple structure—yet it expresses a rich palette of colors through masterful orchestration, which is why it’s so often used in films, TV dramas, and commercials.
As autumn approaches, it might be nice to immerse yourself in the world of Boléro.
Symphony No. 7Ludwig van Beethoven
Beethoven, one of the most important composers in the history of music, is revered in Japan as the “Saint of Music,” and his monumental achievements are beyond words.
Among the many pieces familiar to everyone—from symphonies and orchestral works to rhapsodies and chamber music—we would like to introduce his highly popular Symphony No.
7, frequently featured in dramas and films.
Though classical in form, its rhythm-centered construction is strikingly innovative.
Wagner praised it as the “apotheosis of the dance,” while some other composers criticized it.
It’s accessible even to classical music beginners and highly recommended.
By the way, while some of his other symphonies bear titles like “Fate” and “Pastoral,” the Seventh is untitled—which is interesting in its own right.