Masterpieces of Ballet Music: Introducing Classic Favorites
Even when they hear “ballet music,” many people who haven’t experienced ballet may find it hard to picture what the pieces sound like.
So this time, we’ve selected a collection of famous ballet music for those very people.
From classic masterpieces everyone knows to relatively recent works, we’ve curated a wide range.
Because many of the pieces will sound familiar, we think even those not well-versed in classical music or ballet can enjoy them.
Now, please take your time and immerse yourself in the beautiful world of ballet music!
- [Orchestra] Introducing famous and popular pieces
- Masterpieces of Ballet Music: Introducing Classic Favorites
- Masterpieces of the bolero. Recommended popular pieces in bolero form and outstanding performances.
- [Violin] A curated selection of beloved classic masterpieces and popular pieces that continue to be cherished across eras
- [Masterpiece Classics] A special showcase of gem-like masterpieces so beautiful they’ll move you to tears
- Cool classical masterpieces. Recommended classical music.
- [Tchaikovsky] Pick up famous and representative pieces!
- Timelessly beautiful classical masterpieces. Recommended classical music.
- Popular classical piano pieces. A collection of masterful performances by Japanese pianists.
- Classical Masterpieces: Recommended Works You Should Hear at Least Once
- Classic masterpieces recommended for women
- Disney classics to enjoy in a classical arrangement: recommended popular songs
- Sweet, gentle tones and resonance: A selection of enchanting classical guitar masterpieces
Masterpieces of Ballet Music | Introducing Classic Favorites (21–30)
The Carnival of the Animals, No. 13: The SwanCamille Saint-Saëns
A celebrated work by Camille Saint-Saëns, based on a melody from the suite Le Carnaval des animaux.
Originally conceived as one of the pieces in a suite intended as entertainment for Carnival in early 1886, it was the only movement the composer allowed to be published during his lifetime.
The flowing melody played by the cello evokes the elegant figure of a swan gliding over the water and conjures the dreamlike imagery of the legendary “swan song.” The ballet The Dying Swan, created by Anna Pavlova in 1905 to this music, is renowned worldwide, and figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu’s exhibition performance to the piece also moved many audiences.
This is a piece for those who want to immerse themselves in the beautiful tone of the cello—a sound that seems to make you forget the summer heat and refresh the spirit.
The NutcrackerPyotr Tchaikovsky
One of the most famous works of ballet music is The Nutcracker, known in Japan as Kurumiwari Ningyō.
Composed by Pyotr Tchaikovsky and premiered in 1892, it tells the story of a girl who receives a nutcracker as a gift and journeys through a dream world.
The music perfectly captures this narrative with a fantastical tone.
Since it is set at Christmas, it’s especially recommended for the holiday season.
In conclusion
Unlike general classical music, I felt that the classical works used for ballet tend to have fewer percussive elements.
This is probably because pieces with more space allow for a wider range of dance expression, but since that approach is the opposite of contemporary dance, I found that contrast enjoyable as well.
We also have articles featuring classical music on Rug Music, so please check them out!