RAG MusicPiano
A web magazine to help you enjoy the piano even more

Masterpieces of classical piano that are too beautiful for words. A gathering of delicate tones that cleanse the soul.

The piano is a captivating instrument that transforms into a variety of expressions depending on the performer and the manner of interpretation.

Its delicate yet dynamic grace and its ineffable depth—paired with a vast palette of tones and rich resonance—are said to rival an entire orchestra with a single instrument.

This time, from among works that allow you to fully savor the piano’s timbre, we have selected pieces with a focus on “beauty.”

Whether you love to play the piano or to listen to it, we hope you will immerse yourself in its allure, savoring each delicate note one by one.

Masterpieces of classical piano that are almost too beautiful. A gathering of delicate, soul-cleansing tones (71–80)

An Ode to SpringEdvard Grieg

Grieg: Lyric Pieces, Book III – To Spring, Op. 43 No. 6 pf. Seiko Seki
An Ode to SpringEdvard Grieg

One of Grieg’s most famous and beloved pieces, included in his piano collection Lyric Pieces.

This lyrical work evokes the breath of spring and vivid scenes of natural beauty.

It is said that Grieg composed it while traveling in Denmark, feeling homesick and wishing to pay tribute to the magnificent beauty of his native Norway.

Please enjoy the sweet melody that conveys the warmth of spring!

Songs Without Words, Book VII, Op. 85 No. 4 “Elegy”Felix Mendelssohn

This Elegy is the fourth piece in Mendelssohn’s Songs Without Words, Book 7, Op.

85, published posthumously after his death.

In terms of difficulty, it is about the same level as the well-known Spring Song from the same collection: challenging for complete beginners, but quite manageable for those who have learned basic techniques.

A distinctive feature of this piece is the ornamental sixteenth notes; it is crucial not to play them with the same strength as the main melody, but to treat them as accompaniment—quietly, yet expressively.

Accidentals also appear fairly frequently, so make sure your score reading is solid, and practice slowly and carefully.

Nocturne No. 15 in F minor, Op. 55 No. 1Frederic Chopin

Alexander Ullman – Nocturne in F minor Op. 55 No. 1 (second stage)
Nocturne No. 15 in F minor, Op. 55 No. 1Frederic Chopin

Frédéric Chopin left behind 21 beautiful nocturnes.

While the romantic No.

2 and No.

20, which gained attention in the film The Pianist, are well known, the melancholic No.

15 in F minor, Op.

55-1 is also exceptionally beautiful and one of the works well suited to the artsy mood of autumn.

Though the piece conveys unbearable sorrow and suffering, the bright arpeggios at the end bring a sudden sense of relief, as if a weight has been lifted from the heart.

By all means, listen as you savor the way the music slowly transforms within its quiet flow.

Cradle Song, S.174, R.57Franz Liszt

Berceuse, S. 174/R. 57a: Berceuse, S174a/R57a (1st Version)
Cradle Song, S.174, R.57Franz Liszt

When people think of Franz Liszt, many imagine passionate, romantic music and pieces of superhuman virtuosity.

However, his Lullaby, S.174 R.57, while retaining Liszt’s characteristic sweetness, is entirely devoid of intensity and unfolds gently from start to finish—a beautiful work that seems to guide you into a comfortable sleep.

The note count is modest and the score is easy to read, but to maintain the calm flow and play smoothly, precise control of the fingertips is essential.

With proper hand form, cherish each and every note as you play.

The Maiden with Flaxen HairClaude Debussy

The Maiden with the Flaxen Hair / La fille aux cheveux de lin / Debussy / Classic Piano / CANACANA
The Maiden with Flaxen HairClaude Debussy

This piece is said to be an arrangement of an unpublished song by Debussy, set to a poem of the same title by Leconte de Lisle.

Debussy composed 24 piano preludes, which are collected into two books of 12 pieces each.

This piece is the eighth in Book I, and it is probably the most well-known and popular of them.

Since it originated from a poem, it vividly conjures up scenes in the mind.

By the way, “amastro-colored” (flaxen) refers to blond hair that is close to white.

Je te veuxErik Satie

Satie: Je te veux — Kentaro Haneda
Je te veuxErik Satie

Erik Satie, the great French composer who had a profound influence on modern classical composers such as Debussy and Ravel, actively embraced innovative techniques and has had a major impact on contemporary music as well.

When it comes to Satie’s famous works, many people probably think of Je te veux.

Falling under the genre commonly known as chanson, it has been used in many commercials and video games in Japan.

Its dignified atmosphere intertwines beautifully with a delicate lightness, creating a distinctive kind of beauty.

music boxCharles-Henry

Charles-Henry: Music Box, Charles-Henry: La boîte à zizique / Piano: Jun Shiraishi @ SEILER Piano
music boxCharles-Henry

This heartwarming piece expresses the delicate timbre of a music box on the piano.

Its graceful melody, as if opening a jewelry box, brings a gentle sense of calm to the listener’s heart.

Featured on the album “Histoires Presque Vraies,” the work beautifully captures tones that are mechanical yet brimming with humanity, inviting you into the world of music boxes filled with nostalgic memories.

Its tender sound and simple structure are recommended for those who wish to step away from the bustle of daily life and soothe their hearts, or who want to spend a peaceful moment.

It’s also an approachable piece for those looking to try their hand at piano performance.